New merger in UK

The Animate Company has bought Outhwaites Pet, a manufacturer of rope products, according to a report by online publisher Ideas4petretail in the latest issue of its newsletter.

The former owners of Outhwaites, Peter and Ruth Annison, have declared that they will step back from the business after many years. The general manager of the new enlarged company will be Andy Monk, the former general manager of Outhwaites.

Both companies have a good record in innovative pet accessories. The Animate Company is a family-run business, owned by Jackie and Paul Sivyour, which manufactures a full range of pet bedding, dog coats and dog toys.