Doting dog owners boost Fylde coast firm's sales

The Barking Bakery, in Kirkham, is one of Britain’s biggest manufacturers of specialist doggy treats, and it is reporting a major increase in sales, with Valentine’s cakes for pets and other treats more than doubling compared with last year.

This follows a massive 3000 per cent increase in sales over the past five years, as Britain’s dog lovers spoil their pets more than ever before, according to the company’s latest sales data.

“There is a definite trend towards upmarket treats which are canine-friendly,” explained founder and managing director Michelle Turnbull. “This might be birthday or Valentine’s cakes for special occasions or everyday treats, like Woofins and dog-friendly popcorn.”

Woofins and ‘iced’ woofins, which are muffins made with pooch-friendly ingredients, are the company’s best-sellers. But doggy popcorn and specialist birthday cakes are also increasing in popularity.

“Owners want to treat their pets,” Michelle added. “And they’re becoming increasingly aware of giving them the right treats. We’re certainly seeing an increase in pet pampering products.

“Forget it’s a dog’s life, they’ve never had it so good for many of our customers.”

The upmarket treat trend reflects increasingly aspirational purchases for dogs, such as hi-tech illuminating collars, stylish embroidered jackets and even jewel-encrusted leads.

The Barking Bakery was set up in 2012 by dog lover Michelle and her pet pooch Spot.

The company manufactures a range of dog-friendly treats, including the highly-popular Woofins – dog-friendly muffins – and ‘iced’ Woofins, as well as cheesy-flavoured doggy popcorn.