Case Studies

Grampian dog supplier celebrates pawfect launch following one-to-one support

Business Gateway provided The Pet Shop with 1:1 support and access to free workshops.

21st January 2020

About the business

Launched in June 2019, The Pet Stop is a mobile and online pet supply service on a mission to save pet owners time and money.

Based in Fyvie, Aberdeenshire, The Pet Stop delivers its own range of grain free specialist dog food, treats and supplies to hungry pups across the region.

Always aiming to go the extra mile, business owner Shona Dempster and her team provide free samples of the grain-free products to “pupstomers” allowing each to taste the range before their owners commit to purchasing a full bag of food.

As well as making door-to-dog deliveries, Shona provides a weighing service to ensure each pet receives the right amount of food based on their size and age.

Before speaking with Business Gateway, I didn’t have the confidence to set up my own business, but my adviser gave me the much-needed boost to launch The Pet Stop.

How Business Gateway has helped

After consulting with Business Gateway and taking advantage of the one-to-one support services and free workshops available, Shona felt she was equipped with the skill set required to launch The Pet Shop and hasn’t looked back since.

Shona Dempster, business owner, commented: “Before launching The Pet Stop, I thought my only route into the industry was through franchising, but, after meeting with Business Gateway, that quickly changed. I attended a free workshop where I spoke with like-minded entrepreneurs and advisers who gave me the boost that I needed to set up independently.”

Support provided

Advice on Business Plan

Advice on Marketing

Networking Opportunities

Market Research Reports

Digital HealthCheck

What’s next?

Following research into the positive effect that pets can have on mental health, Shona hopes to expand her offering to introduce a buddy service, allowing those without pets the chance to take the dogs for a walk and interact with the animals in a calm environment.

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