Distinctive Pets founder delight at Theo Paphitis selection of her business.
A Bridlington animal lover who set up her own business selling gifts for pets is celebrating after winning an award from TV star and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis.
Jo Milnes, 53, from Thornholme, was inspired to create Distinctive Pets when trying to find healthy treats for her own dogs and this has grown over the last three years. Her three labradors, Muppet, Molly and Rosie help with product testing.
Jo won Dragon’s Den star Theo’s Small Business Sunday award during lockdown, but had to wait until recently to be presented with her certificate.
Jo, who sells gifts that are not generally found on the High Street at events and online, celebrated with many other small businesses including several pet businesses at the ICC in Birmingham last week.
She said: “With the pet industry thriving it’s very important that I stand out as a small business owner and the recognition of my hard work by Theo has helped me to stand out and let more people know about my products.”
“I created the business when my daughter went to University to fill a gap in my life and provide UK sourced treats for my dogs.”
“I’m delighted to have been chosen by Theo as I understand less than 1% of entries are accepted and this has given me the opportunity to spend an inspirational day in Birmingham celebrating small businesses.”
During the pandemic, the dog population went from 9.5million to 12.5 million and the cat population rose from 7.5 million to 12.2 million according to the Pet Food Manufacturers Association.
Research by Statista found £6.2 billion was spent on pets in 2021, with £2.9 billion on food, £2.1 billion on vet care, £900 million on accessories and £300 million on grooming.
Small Business Sunday is a weekly initiative set up by Theo Paphitis in 2010 and it now has more than 3000 winners within it’s supportive community.
Speaking about Jo’s win, Theo said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK.”
“My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Jo and Distinctive Pets every success.”
Find out more about Jo at www.distinctivepets.co.uk
