Sisters and owners Julie Clifford and Frances Pinkowski used a £17,500 grant from the North Lanarkshire Business Growth Fund to move into larger premises and open a dog day-care centre.

Ruben’s Pet Store specialises in natural raw dog food, natural treats, health products and accessories. Julie and Frances were inspired to start their own business in 2017 after seeing the life-changing benefits of a raw diet on Julie’s dog, Ruben.

Business Gateway advisers provided one-to-one support with financial planning, HR, and marketing, helping the sisters expand their business and digital presence.

Earlier this year, the team was named Independent Pet Shop of the Year 2024 for North Lanarkshire, Falkirk, Fife and Edinburgh at the Local Pet Awards Scotland. Riding on the wave of this success, the team plan further expansion to the business by the end of the year and the current forecast is for it to double its turnover again over the next two years.

Julie said: “Business Gateway’s advice and guidance has been instrumental in helping us navigate our expansion and moving to the new premises.

“Jim (Fagan) and Gemma (Barrett) have been brilliant in offering their expertise, support and connections which have been crucial in gaining grant funding and taking our business to the next stage.”

Gemma Barrett, Business Gateway adviser, said: “Julie, Frances and the rest of the team at Ruben’s Pet Store have had a fantastic year, it’s brilliant to see all their hard work and dedication paying off.

“They have been a joy to work with and really taken on board our advice and guidance. We’re delighted to have assisted them in expanding their business and look forward to supporting the next exciting steps in their journey.”