Innovation and Pet Food SMEs in the United Kingdom

The market for prepared pet food in the United Kingdom (UK) is worth just over $2.3 billion a year. As a consequence, the pet food industry needs to be responsible, efficient, and at the forefront of technology. This research investigates the technological and industrial environment for innovation, which currently exists in the UK pet food industry. It draws primarily on existing research and secondary data sources including organisations such as the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association. The pilot study involved a detailed analysis of the issues regarding technological innovation in the pet food industry in the UK. In particular the results of the study have been analysed in detail using a “cross indicator analysis.” The research reveals that pet food SMEs in the UK are key players in the pet food industry and are willing to innovate to enhance their product lines even if at a moderate level.