You might notice things look a little different this week.
By now you would know that Pet Industry News came under new ownership in late 2021, and the team has been hard at work breathing new life into the publication.
Founded by industry veteran, former pet retailer, and passionate industry advocate Bob Croucher 30 years ago, Pet Industry News has built a reputation as the official journal of the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA), and as a trusted voice to help with the advancement of the pet industry.
The new owners of Pet Industry News, C&I Media, a division of Australia’s largest B2B publisher, The Intermedia Group, have been working hard to nurture and retain the strong reputation and industry foundations that have been built by Croucher over the past 30 years.
“When I decided to retire it was important to me that the magazine went to someone that would continue with what I started 30 years ago,” says Croucher.
“I met with C&I Media and found that this group would do just that and more. They have the resources, the staff, and the motivation to not only continue what I had started, but to go onto greater things.
“They are keen to become part of the industry and are working with the industry to produce a hard copy magazine, a professional website, a Pet Industry News Podcast, and regular weekly news reports.”
Safa de Valois, Group Publisher of C&I Media, thanked Croucher for agreeing to stay on in an advisory capacity, as we work to take Pet Industry News to new heights.
“Bob’s breadth of knowledge, passion, and connections within the pet industry are what helped him to establish Pet Industry News as a key voice within the industry. We feel very fortunate to be able to draw on his passion and insights as we set ourselves up for the next 30 years and beyond,” says de Valois.
“We’d also like to thank the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA) for its ongoing support. In working together, we are stronger,” he said.
Pet Industry News is the longest standing and most trusted publication across print and digital, reaching Australia’s largest audience of pet retailers, veterinarians, breeders, groomers, aquatics, boarding services, and suppliers.
Deborah Jackson, Associate Publisher of C&I Media, says that there are exciting things to come from Pet Industry News.
“We are committed to continuing to deliver high-quality news and providing a voice for the advancement of the pet industry – but you’ll notice that we’ll be doing things a bit differently and across some new mediums.
“With the support of PIAA we will be launching a series of industry round table discussions, which will appear in print and on our newly launched Pet Industry News Podcast.
“We are also very excited to relaunch our quarterly print magazine, with production already well underway for the first issue. In this issue we will celebrate our 30th anniversary by showcasing the Industry’s 30 Most Influential people – and the support for this initiative has been truly incredible.
“Thank you once again to Barry Codling, Linda Chamarette, and the team at PIAA for their ongoing support. To our advertisers who have stuck with us through this transition phase, and most importantly to our loyal readers – we are here for you.
“We are so passionate about the pet industry, and we are looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you – so please reach out to us and say hi!”
Group Publisher: Safa de Valois safa@c-store.com.au
Associate Publisher: Deb Jackson d.jackson@c-store.com.au
National Sales Manager: James Yates jyates@petnews.com.au
Deputy Editor: Thomas Oakley-Newell tom@c-store.com.au