Fledgling pet trade body The Animal Focused Alliance has been recognised at a reception hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves.
Founder Vicky Skinner was invited to 11 Downing Street for the event, which brought together more than 80 recent winners and finalists of The Small Awards to celebrate the contribution of the UK’s 5.7 million small businesses to the economy, society and communities.
The Alliance, which was founded in May 2025, was a finalist for the New Kid on the Block Award for best business start-up. Launched to support pet businesses including dog walkers, groomers, home boarders, catteries and animal encounter providers, the Alliance gives members sector updates on legislation and licensing, Primary Authority-assured advice, a free legal helpline, expert webinars, and exclusive discounts on insurance, training and products. It also represents members in national policy discussions as part of the Companion Animal Sector Council.
Skinner said: “To be recognised in a national award in our first year is incredible in itself, but to then be invited to Downing Street was huge. We set up the Alliance because pet professionals so often run their businesses alone, without anyone to turn to on welfare, licensing or the law – and meeting people facing the same challenges was a real reminder that we’re all in this together.
“Whether you’re a groomer, a baker or a builder, the day-to-day reality of running a small business is remarkably similar, and that shared experience is what makes events like this so valuable.”
Now in its 10th year, The Small Awards is run by Small Business Britain and judged by a panel of leading business experts.
