EPO at the International Pet Conference 2026: Responsible Animal Sourcing & the Future of the Pet Industry
EPO was pleased to participate in the International Pet Conference 2026, held in Copenhagen on 13–14 October, bringing together leading representatives from across the international pet industry to exchange views on the sector’s challenges, opportunities and future.
EPO was represented by its President, Svein A. Fosså, and Secretary General, Nathalie Gamain, who contributed to the conference programme on 13 October through a dedicated session entitled “Responsible Animal Sourcing: Securing the Future of the Pet Industry”.
Addressing an audience of approximately 160 industry representatives, including manufacturers, distributors and retailers, Svein A. Fosså highlighted a fundamental message: the future of the pet industry depends on the animals themselves.
His presentation emphasised the importance of ensuring a sustainable supply of responsibly sourced animals and preserving the diversity of species that people can responsibly keep as pets. These considerations are essential not only for animal welfare but also for the long-term sustainability of the entire pet sector.
The presentation was followed by a moderated discussion involving both the EPO President and Secretary General, providing an opportunity to highlight EPO’s role in representing the interests of the European pet sector at EU level, particularly in the context of evolving European legislation and policy discussions affecting pet keeping and the trade in pet animals.
The session also underlined the importance of responsible, science-based and proportionate approaches to animal welfare, sourcing and pet keeping, while ensuring that the sector remains actively involved in shaping its own future.
Beyond its contribution to the conference programme, EPO’s participation provided a valuable opportunity to engage directly with industry representatives, exchange perspectives on shared challenges and further strengthen cooperation across the international pet community.
EPO warmly thanks the International Pet Conference organisers, PETworldwide and Dähne Verlag, for the invitation and the excellent organisation of this year’s event.
EPO remains committed to ensuring that the European pet sector has a strong and informed voice in discussions shaping its future, recognising that responsibly sourced animals and responsible pet keeping are at the very heart of a sustainable pet industry.
Credit photo: Thomas Goetz
