IndePet’s annual conference will take place in Hobart from 18 May to 22 May, offering a range of networking and educational opportunities.

Building on previous years’ themes of Stronger Together, Level Up, and Momentum, the 2025 theme will be ‘Elevate’ and will focus on unlocking the potential of the IndePet network for its member stores and key partners.

Alongside the conference’s usual program of networking, keynote speakers, and workshops, there will be a large-scale research project into independent pet stores and their customers, which is set to be a key focus of the event.

Tia Wishart, Business Development Manager at IndePet, said they are excited to be part of the first large-scale research project focusing on independent pet stores and their customers and very excited to share the insights.

“Our mystery shopping results for the group show our stores already excel in customer connection. This research will help build an even stronger emotional and data-driven customer focus for our members and customise their approach to customer loyalty.”

Marketing expert Damian Young and loyalty specialist Adam Posner will headline the event as keynote speakers.

Damien Young, recognised as one of Australia’s top ten CMOs in the CMO50 Awards, has over 25 years of experience in food marketing. He has worked with major brands such as Chobani, Gippsland Dairy, Nestlé, and Lion Dairy & Drinks. Young has a proven track record in driving business growth and has played a key role in establishing strong marketing teams.

Adam Posner is a specialist in customer loyalty with over 31 years of experience in data-driven marketing. As the founder of The Point of Loyalty, he has developed insights into loyalty programs through extensive research, including 17 in-depth studies on Australian and New Zealand customer loyalty. Posner has worked across various industries, including retail, financial services, and hospitality, and is a recognised thought leader in loyalty marketing.

Krysten Arnold, Marketing Manager for IndePet, expressed her excitement for this year’s event.

“The annual conference is IndePet’s biggest event on the calendar, bringing together members, key store teams, and suppliers for a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate, and align on future goals.”

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