The Journey of Dog G8: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities in the Pet Market

Clayton engages in a lively conversation with Chris and Peter Maxted, the founders of Dog G8, a company specializing in innovative safety gates for pet owners. The discussion delves into the origins of their unique product, which was born out of necessity when Chris's wife ran a pet care business and faced challenges with dogs escaping through open doors. The Maxteds share their journey from concept to market, including their experience at trade shows, the impact of social media on their marketing strategy, and their memorable appearance on Dragon's Den. They also explore the importance of customer service, the challenges of selling a one-and-done product, and their ambitions for international growth, particularly in the U.S. market. KEY TAKEAWAYS Product Origin and Purpose: The Dog G8 safety gate was developed out of necessity to prevent dogs from escaping when doors are opened, particularly in homes with multiple dogs.  Market Expansion and Versatility: Initially designed for front doors, the safety gate's modular design allows it to be used in various settings, including caravans, motorhomes, and stairways.  Impact of Social Media and Marketing: The rise of social media platforms, particularly TikTok, has significantly contributed to the product's visibility and recognition.  Direct-to-Consumer Strategy: The business model focuses on selling directly to consumers rather than through traditional retail channels.  BEST MOMENTS "It sort of came out of necessity that I identified my wife used to run a pet care business from home." - Peter  "We knew that that journey could last between 12 and 24 months to see what was the response to the public going to be." - Chris  "We try hard not to sell through the fear factor. We want it to be a safety product and people to be aware of it." - Chris  "The response to us was phenomenal." - Peter  "We think we have a great product." - Peter  HOST BIO Clayton Payne is an industry veteran of three decades of working in the pet industry. Brought up working in his parents' pet store, Clayton has seen the industry evolve over five different decades and has been on the cutting edge of the industry since the nineties. Building pet businesses from scratch, establishing multi-national distribution chains and having worked in every aspect of the industry, Clayton has a rare insight into the Pet Industry that is rivalled by few.  Clayton has been the spearhead of many of the industry's changes and has introduced numerous new concepts to market with a trail of success behind him. He has worked in numerous countries within the pet industry, speaks four different languages and has established both import and export relationships on all continents (excluding Antarctica). As well as being COO of one of the UKs fastest growing insect technology companies, Clayton is a Pet industry consultant who has consulted for many household brands and delivers sales training to pet trade professionals. https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-payne-a6772244/ https://www.tiktok.com/@petbusinessdisruptors https://www.youtube.com/@PetBusinessDisruptors