Major British pet brand used by over 100,000 owners COLLAPSES after 25 years of trading

Joe Sledge
Mon, 13 Apr 2026 17:22:15 +0000

Petplanet, the Scottish-based online pet supplies retailer, has entered administration following nearly three decades of trading.

The West Lothian company, which attracted more than 100,000 customers annually across Britain, ceased operations at the end of March.

Filings published in The Gazette confirm James Stephen and Kiri Holland from accountancy firm BDO were appointed as administrators on April 10.

The online retailer had built a substantial customer base since its founding, becoming a popular destination for pet owners seeking products ranging from premium animal food to toys.

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The company has not publicly addressed its financial position on its website or social media channels, where it continues to share pet-related content.

Petplanet first opened for business in July 1999, according to Companies House records, and spent more than 25 years establishing itself within the UK pet retail market.

The company stocked a wide range of products including animal food, toys and litter, positioning itself as a one-stop shop for pet owners.

On its website, the retailer described itself as having been "passionate about pets for over 25 years" and developing into "a trusted destination for everything pets need".

The company said: "We pride ourselves on offering a wide variety of high quality products and building lasting relationships with our customers. We're here to make sure your pets have everything they need to live their happiest, healthiest lives!"

Entering administration indicates a company is unable to meet its financial obligations, including debts and other liabilities.

The process is governed by the Insolvency Act 1986 and is designed to provide protection while options for restructuring or sale are explored.

A licensed insolvency practitioner can be appointed by directors, creditors or the court to oversee the process.

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Once administration begins, a statutory moratorium is put in place to protect the business from creditor action while plans are developed.

Administrators are required to produce proposals within eight weeks of their appointment.

Creditors are then invited to vote on these plans through a formal decision process, with any proceeds distributed according to a statutory order of priority.

Petplanet’s collapse comes amid a deterioration in conditions for British businesses.

A total of 151 firms entered administration that month, marking a 14 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2025.

High street pressures, wage increases, weaker consumer spending and rising operating costs under Chancellor Rachel Reeves have contributed to the increase in corporate distress.

By late February, insolvency levels remained elevated, with the retail and hospitality sectors facing particular challenges.

Sarah Rayment, managing director and global co-head of restructuring at Kroll, said: "The key question at this point in the year is whether distress and insolvencies will continue to rise given the pressures facing UK businesses. The reality is that every sector will face headwinds this year."