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Real Pet Industry News

Real Pet Industry News

By: Clayton Payne and Sam Muelas
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About this listen

 Real Pet Industry News brings you raw, unfiltered commentary on the latest trends, controversies, and innovations shaping the pet industry. Hosted by Clayton Payne (Pet Business Disruptors) and Sam Muelas (Dog and Cat Nutrition on YouTube), this podcast cuts through the noise to deliver real talk on everything from pet food scandals to game-changing business moves. Whether you're a pet industry pro, entrepreneur, or just a passionate pet owner, Clayton and Sam break it all down with expert insight, sharp opinions, and no-nonsense discussions.Real Pet Industry News
Episodes
  • Bugalugs in Aldi and Pet Industry innovation

    Bugalugs in Aldi and Pet Industry innovation
    Jul 14 2025
    summaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the rapid rise of Bugalugs in the pet industry, the implications of their brand presence in big box retailers like Aldi, and the potential risks to independent pet shops. They delve into the importance of brand perception and the long-term sustainability of businesses in the pet market. The conversation shifts to the role of scientific research in pet food, questioning the credibility of industry standards and the influence of large corporations. Finally, they explore recent innovations in pet products, highlighting both promising developments and marketing gimmicks.
    takeaways
    • Bugalugs' growth may threaten independent pet shops.
    • Brand perception is crucial for long-term success.
    • Big box retailers can devalue premium brands.
    • Scientific studies in pet food can be biased.
    • Industry influence often overshadows genuine research.
    • Probiotics may not be the best long-term solution.
    • Innovation in pet products is essential for market growth.
    • Consumer perception can be easily swayed by pricing.
    • The pet industry is evolving with new voices and ideas.
    • Marketing gimmicks can mislead consumers about product quality.

    titles
    • The Bugalugs Dilemma: Growth vs. Brand Integrity
    • Navigating Brand Perception in the Pet Industry

    Sound Bites
    • "Why would you compete?"
    • "It's the same brand!"
    • "Kick them out!"

    Chapters00:00The Rise and Risks of Bugalugs
    02:07Brand Perception and Market Dynamics
    07:32The Role of Institutions in Pet Food
    10:53Leadership Changes in Pet Food Industry
    25:26Innovations in Pet Products
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    29 mins
  • Vegan Cats and M&As

    Vegan Cats and M&As
    Jul 7 2025
    summaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the controversial topic of vegan cat food, highlighting the nutritional deficiencies and regulatory concerns surrounding it. They also delve into the representation of women in the pet industry, emphasizing the significant contributions of female founders. The conversation shifts to the recent acquisition of several pet food brands by Subridge Pet Supplies, analyzing the implications for the market. Finally, they explore the future of wholesaling in the pet industry, advocating for a more transparent and efficient model.
    takeaways
    • Vegan cat food raises significant nutritional concerns.
    • Cats are obligate carnivores and require animal-based nutrients.
    • Vet approvals for pet food often lack rigorous standards.
    • The vegan pet food trend is controversial and complex.
    • Women make up a large percentage of the pet industry workforce.
    • Business success is driven by product quality, not gender.
    • Legacy pet food brands may lack innovation and relevance.
    • The current wholesaler model is outdated and inefficient.
    • A more transparent wholesaling approach could benefit the industry.
    • Collaboration among retailers can lead to better pricing and product sourcing.

    titles
    • The Controversy of Vegan Cat Food
    • Empowering Women in the Pet Industry

    Sound Bites
    • "Cats are natural obligate carnivores."
    • "Vet approved? What does that even mean?"
    • "These brands are just legacy brands."

    Chapters00:00The Rise of Vegan Cat Food
    10:48Female Founders in the Pet Industry
    16:38Acquisition of Pet Food Brands
    23:32The Future of Wholesaling in the Pet Industry
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    28 mins
  • Royal Canin's Fresh food

    Royal Canin's Fresh food
    Jun 30 2025
    summaryIn this conversation, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the recent shift of Royal Canin towards fresh pet food, exploring the implications for the pet food industry, market dynamics, and the challenges posed by subscription models. They analyze the impact on premium kibble brands and the role of private equity in shaping business strategies. The discussion highlights the tension between recurring revenue models and traditional profitability, questioning the sustainability of current business practices in the pet food sector.
    takeaways
    • Royal Canin's new fresh food line is a significant shift.
    • The pet food industry is seeing a move towards fresh food.
    • Subscription models are becoming a challenge for traditional pet food brands.
    • Premium kibble brands are at risk due to the rise of fresh food.
    • Distribution logistics are crucial for fresh pet food success.
    • Private equity is influencing the pet food market dynamics.
    • Recurring revenue models are prioritized over profitability by many companies.
    • The fresh food market legitimizes the sector and attracts investment.
    • Companies need to adapt to changing consumer preferences for pet food.
    • The future of pet food may involve a blend of fresh and traditional options.

    titles
    • Royal Canin's Bold Move into Fresh Food
    • Navigating the Pet Food Market Landscape

    Sound Bites
    • "They could buy the farmer's dog."
    • "Why wouldn't they do it?"
    • "Premium kibble is in trouble."

    Chapters00:00Royal Canin's Shift to Fresh Food
    02:39Market Dynamics and Competition in Pet Food
    05:05Strategic Decisions: Acquisitions vs. In-House Production
    07:59Distribution Challenges for Fresh Pet Food
    10:47Impact of Major Brands on D2C Fresh Food Companies
    12:59The Future of Premium Kibble
    15:36Recurring Revenue Models in Pet Food Industry
    18:16The Sustainability of D2C Pet Food Businesses
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    27 mins

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