Pet products producer in Bury St Edmunds toasts 25 years in business

A company which makes and distributes pet products is celebrating 25 years in business.

Petlife International, based in Cavendish Road, Bury St Edmunds, employs 42 people at its three sites, in Bury, South Witham and Wales.

Based in Bury St Edmunds since a management buyout in 1993 the company has been in the ownership of John Hancock, managing director, since its formation.

It makes and owns Vetbed Original, a pet bedding recognised by the veterinary industry.

It also provides hundreds of products for dogs, cats and small animals as well as pigeons.

These include bedding, grooming products and healthcare products for pets.

Petlife International also owns Harkers Ltd, a leading supplier of pigeon products.

The company is continuing to develop its international business and aims to continue to expand regardless of any implications from Brexit.

International sales have supported the company with recent new customers acquired from Germany, Italy and Holland.

Mr |Hancock said: “I am incredibly proud of the progress the company has made with our efforts to ensure we provide the best pet products on the market and in a competitive world.

“Our staff work hard and are extremely loyal. I really appreciate the efforts everyone in the company has made to get us where we are today.

“Time flies and I see no reason why the company on current performance cannot go on to achieve bigger and better things in the future.

“Brexit or no Brexit we have pushed on with developing our international business and with support from customers old and new overseas.

“I have no doubt we will continue to serve an international market after 28th March 2019. Our products are special and the consumer embraces that as such, home or away.”

Mr Hancock’s two sons James and Tom have joined the business and have worked their way to senior management level thereby continuing the family run ethos of the business.