The Pet Program took place last month, where we hosted over 2,600 live, one-on-one virtual meetings during a SOLD-OUT session! Suppliers of branded & private brand pet supplies, toys, grooming/health, food, and treats presented and reviewed new programs, marketing initiatives, and promotional opportunities to buyers from retailers across all channels. During the session, participating buyers were able to visit the Buyers Choice Awards section of the ECRM Connect platform and cast a digital vote on their favorite product based on innovation and product packaging. We are pleased to announce the winners: 

First Place: Spunky Pup – Clean Earth Recycled Plush Turtle (3 time winner!)

Spunky Pup is dedicated to producing high-quality, durable, innovative, and fun dog toys directed at the pet-specialty market. Their product line has grown to include toys in multiple categories, including Glow in the dark, Flashing, Tough, USA-made, Eco-Friendly/Sustainable and Organic Cotton toys, Interactive, Launching and Flying, and Plush. Their goal is to continue to expand their product offerings to meet the needs of retail partners, consumers…and of course, Spunky Pups everywhere!

The Clean Earth Plush Turtle is made from 100% Recycled plastic bottles, including the fabric, stuffing, binding, and thread. This toy redirects waste from 6 plastic bottles from ending up in oceans, waterways, and landfills. The Clean Earth Turtle includes a built-in squeaker and durable construction. Not only is this Turtle recyclable, but it can be recycled when you dog is done playing with it … which means Infinite Loop Recycling!

Second Place: Modern Gourmet Foods – Holiday Dog Cookies

Modern Gourmet Foods is the largest food gift company in the world (for humans) and they have a passion for what they do; putting smiles on people’s faces. This passion and understanding of the business have translated to being able to work with most major retailers in this business. With the same passion and knowledge that got them here, they were inspired to develop a new, fun, innovative pet line for our best friends that aren’t human. They launched their pet line last year in the UK and Europe with much success and are now rolling it out this year around the world. Items include treats and baking mixes to make treats in fun packaging combined with a non-food component like a bowl, mug or cookie cutter. They will surely put a smile on customers’ faces.   

The Holidays are for giving and your pet shouldn’t be excluded. That’s why Modern Gourmet Foods developed their Holiday Dog Cookies for an extra special treat your dog can’t wait to get their paws on.  They’re fun, decorated snacks that look so good you’ll be sorry they’re not for you. They also have birthday versions to stock year-round. This line has been a huge success for the company and they are looking forward to growing this category with customers. 

Congratulations to our Buyer’s Choice Award Winners!
The next Pet Program will take place October 25-28, 2022.