In recent years, the pet industry has undergone a massive change. From booming sales to industry-wide shifts during the pandemic, company leaders have been forced to adjust their focus, consistently reevaluate, and steer their respective ships through sometimes turbulent waters. On the other side of sweeping change comes a phase of rebuilding, readjusting, and recalibrating what it means to be a successful, and thriving, business. Because of this, Pet Age, a media brand that has served the pet industry for 50+ years, recognizes 50 industry leaders to spotlight their dedication and passion for all things pet. Among those listed, our CEO and President, Michael Baker, earns a spot for the second consecutive year. The inaugural Pet Age 50 list was published in 2021.

Pet Age has fairly simple criteria for the leaders they choose; they look for those who positively influence the pet community, and who value both the people and pets their companies serve. To be included among industry veterans, heads of organizations, and community officials who advocate for the retail pet community is an honor. You can read an excerpt from Michael’s mention below:

It's here - the actual dog days of summer are upon us. With temperatures rising and summer travel in full swing, make sure your business is stocked with everything your pet parents need to keep their fur-kid cool, comfortable, and safe during all of their adventures - even if they're just lounging in the AC. Part of boosting summer sales is making summer pet products the focus of your business from May-August. One of the best ways to do this is by adding a fun and colorful end cap display - think attention-grabbing, bright, and organized. 

Across industries, the past two years were marked by rapid growth and transformation, even in the face of global supply chain challenges and widespread staffing shortages. The pet industry is not excluded from these challenges or tremendous growth. According to the APPA, an estimated $109.6 billion will have been spent on pets in the U.S. in 2021.

Last September, after what felt like forever apart, retailers, vendors, and PFX team members reconnected at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT, for PFEXPO East. Two jam-packed days where our industry comes together to deepen connections, take advantage of incredible deals, and, most importantly...have fun! 

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — February 21, 2022 — Pet Food Experts announced today the retirement of James Bettencourt, Chief Operating Officer, after over four decades of devoted service effective this month. Effective immediately, William May has been appointed Chief Operating Officer.

There is one thing all pet parents know is true; our pets love receiving a good treat. For pet owners, switching up treats and chews is a fun opportunity to spice up the life of their four-legged friends, which is why it is no surprise that pet treats are one of the highest-grossing product categories in the pet space. At Pet Food Experts, our carefully curated brand portfolio offers pet specialty retailers and the communities they serve trusted brands and high-quality products that keep consumers happy and their pet's tails wagging.

TACOMA, WA/DENVER CO – Pet Food Experts announced today the expansion of two new distribution centers in Washington and Colorado over the next two months to support the growing demand for natural pet food and supplies. The expansion allows Pet Food Experts to better serve the pet specialty businesses of the Pacific Northwest and Mountain Region.

Over time we've seen the pet industry transform and grow into what it is today. It is crucial to have leaders we can count on through all this change, especially when our world is thrown into chaos by a global pandemic. This year, Pet Age Magazine has launched the Power 50 List to recognize and highlight our industry's incredible leaders and influencers.

William May joins Pet Food Experts as Vice President of Supply Chain Operations

Over the past year, we’ve seen nearly every industry event pivot to a virtual platform. I’ve had the pleasure of attending several virtual conferences and recently participated in the first-ever Pet Sustainability Coalition’s UnPacked21 event. UnPacked brought together over 400 attendees, including sustainable packaging experts and suppliers, as well as pet industry brands, manufacturers, and retailers, to shed light on one of our industry’s largest issues.