"Sustainability as a Growth Opportunity: Insights, Strategies and Innovations for the Pet Industry
How does sustainability grow from ambition to business success? This question was at the heart of the Interzoo Sustainability Conference and ran like a common thread throughout the programme. It became clear that sustainability is increasingly evolving from a compliance issue into a source of competitive advantage for the pet industry.
Elliott Harris, former Chief Economist of the United Nations, outlined the strategic framework. His message was straightforward: companies that integrate sustainability into their business models for the long term strengthen their future viability and resilience. Amid global challenges and growing demands from policymakers, retailers and consumers, sustainable practices are increasingly becoming an economic necessity.
An analysis of so-called ‘Green Pet Parents’ showed that the market has become more diverse. Whilst sustainability plays an important role in pet owners’ purchasing decisions, expectations vary greatly. For manufacturers and retailers, one key insight emerged: understanding and addressing varying consumer expectations is essential.
Not every customer group values the same aspects – ranging from ingredients and packaging to corporate social responsibility.
The results of the Interzoo Sustainability Study, conducted in collaboration with the Antwerp Management School (AMS), provided valuable insights into the industry's progress on its sustainability journey. The in-depth discussions among participants highlighted that many companies are implementing concrete measures yet are simultaneously facing similar challenges. The open dialogue underscored the value of collaborative learning and sharing best practices in driving progress across the industry.
The example of Project Piaba in the Amazon region demonstrated that sustainability extends far beyond production and supply chains. The initiative exemplifies how responsible value creation can successfully align environmental and social objectives and showcases how sustainable approaches can go beyond resource conservation to create lasting economic value across the entire value chain.
Another topic addressed during the Interzoo Sustainability Conference was the regulatory landscape in Europe. While increasing regulatory requirements are often perceived as a challenge, they also offer companies an opportunity to gain a competitive edge through innovation, transparency and early action. Businesses that view regulatory developments not merely as compliance requirements but as strategic opportunities can strengthen their market position in the long term.
A final highlight was the pitch for the inaugural Interzoo Sustainability Award, demonstrating the remarkable diversity and innovative strength of the sector’s sustainability efforts. The high number of projects submitted impressively underlined the extent to which sustainable solutions have become an integral part of the pet industry – from product innovations to new business models. The prize went to dsm-firmenich, who were presented with the award during the Interzoo opening ceremony.
The conference demonstrated that sustainability has evolved from a future challenge into a key success factor for manufacturers, brands and retailers. At the same time, it revealed the extraordinary depth of innovation, expertise and forward-thinking initiatives across the industry. For professionals seeking to contribute to this transformation and exchange ideas with leading industry experts, Interzoo’s events provide a unique platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration and meaningful dialogue.
