PET GAZETTE | 35
MAJOR INVESTMENT
Just three years ago , Mark and Chris were creating their recipes using the approved cutting room and manufacturing base of their local farm shop . In response to blossoming demand , they launched their own high tech facility . In recent times their premises have continued to expand . Earlier this year , a successful funding campaign provided the investment needed for further significant growth . The additional revenue supported a series of advancements and an increase of their production capabilities . Their DEFRA approved on-site production has expanded significantly with the arrival of state-of-the-art equipment for packing and mincing . The team now has the capacity to produce 20 tonnes of pet food a week .
independent retailers looking to add a real point of difference to their store offer .
Ingredients for all of Cotswold RAW ’ s products are chosen to suit the various target markets . The complete Adult active ranges follow the 80:20 rule – 80 percent raw , meat and bones and 20 percent fresh , seasonal fruit and veg , plus herbs . The recipe for all breeds has a slightly lower protein and fat content ( 70:30 ).
The fresh foods are presented in such a way that handling is minimised and , wherever possible , waste is eliminated . This reduces contamination for the customer of bowls , feeding areas , kitchen surfaces or bins and unwanted smells . The containers can be neatly stored in a domestic fridge or freezer . The sausages can be kept in a freezer for up to nine months .
In terms of hygiene , Mark says : “ Handling raw pet food no different to the way we ’ ve always been taught to handle raw meat in the human diet . You must use separate utensils for handling raw meat and wash them , your hands and surfaces thoroughly after use but there ’ s no difference between the chicken we ’ re using here and the chicken you eat .”
SUPPORTING RETAILERS
Cotswold RAW is determined to work closely with the UK ’ s independent retailers . The company currently supports its stockists with branded refrigeration , point-of sale and loyalty programmes . Its packaging is designed to help products stand out with transparent packaging that is heat sealed in the same way as food for human consumption .
Mark has been pleased by the support the company has received in the independent sector , saying : “ Independent retailers add so much value to the consumer . In the last couple of years , they ’ ve been quicker to react to the growing raw sector than many of the multiples who are slower to adapt to the market . Our sausage offer has been welcomed by retailers as it allows greater impact whilst bringing new recruits to to raw food .”
In return , Cotswold RAW raises its brand ' s profile and directs consumers towards stockists . “ We also advertise whenever feasible , be that in the pet press , the countryside press and increasingly with authoritative online voices . We also advocate regular social media pushes , championing our preferred retailer base .”
NATIONWIDE DISTRIBUTION
Cotswold RAW plans to make the most of its new cutting edge manufacturing facility . With all of the tools they need now in place , the team plans to push ahead with production .
Their immediate priorities revolve around creating a nationwide distribution network .
Retailers interested in working with Cotswold RAW should telephone 01386 426 335 or go to www . cotswoldraw . com
www . petgazette . biz July 2017