Welcome to 2026 in the pet industry

Welcome to 2026 in the pet industry

Author: Clayton Payne and Sam Muelas February 3, 2026 Duration: 24:20
In this conversation, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the current landscape of the pet food industry, focusing on various companies such as Nutriment, Carnly, Scrumbles, and Bella and Duke. They explore the challenges of scaling in raw pet food, the competitive dynamics in the market, and the impact of consumer preferences on brand success. The discussion also touches on the rise of tele-veterinary services and the unique positioning of JR Pet Products in the market.
takeaways
  • Nutriment Company is a strong player in the pet food market.
  • Scaling in raw pet food presents significant challenges.
  • Carnly has achieved impressive market penetration and product execution.
  • Scrumbles is effectively competing against larger brands with better products.
  • Smaller brands struggle to compete with larger companies due to limited SKUs.
  • The cat food market is being disrupted by companies like Catkin and Untamed.
  • The CVS Group navigated the CMA investigation with strategic finesse.
  • Tele-veterinary services are emerging as a viable alternative for pet care.
  • Bella and Duke are pushing for fresh food education among veterinarians.
  • JR Pet Products maintains a unique market position with limited competition.

Ever wonder what's really happening behind the scenes in the world of pets? Real Pet Industry News offers a direct line to the conversations usually reserved for industry insiders. Hosts Clayton Payne, known for his work with Pet Business Disruptors, and Sam Muelas, who creates Dog and Cat Nutrition content, combine their distinct perspectives to analyze what's new and what's next. This isn't polished corporate messaging; it's a frank discussion about the products, practices, and headlines that affect our animals and the businesses built around them. Each episode digs into substantive topics, whether that's unpacking a recent controversy in pet food formulation or examining an innovative retail strategy that's changing the game. The dialogue is grounded in real-world experience, making it valuable for professionals running a pet service, entrepreneurs looking for an edge, or dedicated pet parents who want to make more informed choices. Tune in for a podcast that prioritizes substance over hype, giving you a clearer understanding of the complex and often surprising ecosystem where our love for animals meets commerce. You'll find their candid approach both refreshing and essential for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of pet care and business.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 46

Real Pet Industry News
Podcast Episodes
Pets at Home and Private Equity [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:57
In this episode, Clayton Payne and Sam discuss the current struggles of Pets at Home, focusing on their declining retail performance and the impact of competition from other pet supply stores. They explore the changing l…
Corporate Vets and Halal pet food [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:11
In this episode of Real Pet Industry News, Clayton and Sam discuss the rapid corporatization of veterinary practices, the challenges faced by independent vets, and the implications for pet care and nutrition. They explor…
B Corps, Napo pet insurance and Bella and Duke [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:13
SummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the recent decision by Scrambles to not renew their B Corp certification, citing concerns over the certification's integrity and its shift towards marketing rather than gen…
Nutriment, Biome9 and Wilsons cold pressed [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:54
SummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam discuss the implications of NutriMint's rapid acquisitions in the pet food industry, questioning whether it is becoming a monopoly. They explore the distribution strategies of Nutr…
Omni pet food, Vets vs CMA and Jolleye's price 'drops' [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:53
SummaryIn this episode, Clayton and Sam delve into the current trends and challenges in the pet industry, focusing on the controversial vegan dog food brand Omni, the competitive landscape of pet retailers like Jolly's,…