EPO General Presentation Leaflet
The European Pet Organization (EPO) is the voice of the European pet trade associations. Learn more about EPO in this general presentation dedicated leaflet.
Published on
09/05/17
Latest news
EPO Holds its 2026 Annual General Meeting at Interzoo
The European Pet Organization (EPO) held its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 14th, 2026 - during Interzoo- , bringing together members and Board representatives to review the organisation’s activities and priorities for the year ahead. The meeting highlighted EPO’s continued engagement with EU institutions on key policy files affecting the pet sector, including the EU proposal on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, wildlife trade, and discussions surrounding a potential EU-wide positive list. Members also reflected on several important initiatives carried out over the past year, including events at the European Parliament and EPO’s first Members Seminar in Brussels. During the AGM, members proceeded with the renewal of several Board positions.Svein A. Fosså (NZB) was reappointed as EPO President for a new two-year mandate, along with Vice President, Gerrit Hofstra (DIBEVO). Members also thanked outgoing Treasurer Norbert Holthenrich (ZZF) for his valuable contribution to the organisation, while Volker Ennenbach (ZZF) was appointed as the new Treasurer. Therese Schumacher (VZFS) and Gabriella Ekstrom (ZOORF) were reappointed as full members of the Cash Committee, and Dr. Katrin Langner (IVH) as deputy member. EPO warmly thanks all its members and partners for their continued support and engagement, and remains committed to representing the voice of the pet sector at European level.
20/05/26
What an incredible & memorable Interzoo 2026 edition for EPO!
Over the course of an inspiring week in Nuremberg, EPO was proud to contribute to and participate in a series of important discussions and events helping shape the future of the pet sector in Europe and beyond. Some key EPO contributions included: • the Interzoo Sustainability Conference on Monday May 11th • the Europe Academy session on May 12th • the International Pet Advisory Council (IPAC) meeting on May 13th • the EPO AGM and EPO Seminar 2026 on May 14th • the “Meet the Experts” session on May 14th Beyond the official programme, the week was filled with many constructive meetings with current and potential new members, valuable exchanges with stakeholders, and moments of genuine collaboration across our sector. And of course, there was also time to celebrate together during the wonderful Tropical Night on May 14th 🌴 A special thank you to the organisers, Wirtschaftsgemeinschaft Zoologischer Fachbetriebe GmbH (WZF) and ZZF – Zentralverband der Heimtierbranche e.V., for delivering such an outstanding Interzoo edition. This week once again demonstrated the strength, commitment, and importance of the pet sector — both in Europe and globally — and highlighted the unique value of bringing together EPO members, partners, and stakeholders. Looking forward to continuing the collaboration and building on the momentum created during this exceptional week.
20/05/26
EU sets first-ever rules for dogs & cats: a major win for animal welfare & the responsible pet sector
The European Pet Organization (EPO), the voice of the pet sector at European level, welcomes today’s adoption by the European Parliament of the first EU-wide Regulation specifically addressing the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats. This landmark vote confirms the political agreement reached in November 2025 and represents a decisive step toward stronger animal welfare, better consumer protection, and a more transparent and traceable pet market across the European Union. A key advocacy success for EPOToday’s vote marks a major milestone following sustained engagement by EPO throughout the legislative process.By working closely with the European Commission and the European Parliament, EPO has played a key role in shaping the final framework:- Clearly recognises pet stores as legitimate and regulated actors within the companion animal supply chain- Delivers harmonised and proportionate rules across the EU- Avoids unnecessary burdens on responsible and professional operators- Keeps the scope firmly focused on dogs and cats, preventing the introduction of an EU-wide positive list for all pets. Although the immediate threat of a positive list has been averted, its continued presence in the adopted text underlines the need for ongoing engagement from the trade through EPO. “This is a major achievement for both animal welfare and the pet sector in Europe,” said Svein A. Fosså, President of EPO. “It clearly shows that high welfare standards and a responsible, professional pet sector do go hand in hand. The final text delivers a balanced and workable framework that provides clarity, predictability and fair conditions for operators across the EU, while recognising the essential role of regulated operators, including pet stores.” A landmark framework recognising responsible operatorsThe newly adopted Regulation establishes harmonised EU-wide rules covering breeding establishments, shelters, and selling establishments, including pet stores, recognised as regulated and responsible operators within the companion animal supply chain.For the first time, the EU introduces a comprehensive framework including:- EU-wide animal welfare standards for housing, care, and handling- Strict breeding rules, including limits on reproduction and bans on close inbreeding and harmful genetic practices- Mandatory identification and registration of dogs and cats before being placed on the market- Enhanced traceability through interoperable national databases- Clear and harmonised obligations for all operators, regardless of size or legal statusThese measures will significantly contribute to tackling illegal trade while ensuring both a high level of animal welfare and a well-functioning internal market. Better welfare rules & workable conditions for the sectorThe Regulation strengthens welfare conditions across the EU, introducing requirements on housing, outdoor access, socialisation, and veterinary oversight, while prohibiting harmful practices such as confinement in unsuitable display conditions or inappropriate breeding methods.At the same time, it provides a clear and workable framework allowing responsible operators, including pet stores, to continue their activities under improved and harmonised standards, supporting informed and responsible pet ownership. Focus now on implementationEPO stresses that the effective implementation of the Regulation will depend on consistent and proportionate application across Member States. Key elements include:- Identification and registration before placing animals on the market- Mandatory registration of establishments- Staff training requirements and strengthened veterinary oversight- New provisions for online sales and cross-border movementsEPO looks forward to continuing to work with EU institutions and national authorities on the development of implementing and delegated acts to ensure the rules are clear, workable and enforceable in practice, and aligned with on-the-ground realities.
28/04/26
EPO at Interzoo 2026 in Nuremberg
EPO is looking forward to attending Interzoo 2026 in Nuremberg, one of the key meeting points for the international pet sector & an important opportunity to connect with members, partners, & stakeholders from across Europe and beyond. During this year’s edition, EPO will take part in a number of events and meetings, continuing its engagement with the pet sector and EU policy developments relevant to the sector. EPO will be present at the following events: Interzoo Sustainability Conference – Monday, 11 May 2026 Interzoo Opening Night – Monday, 11 May 2026 (by invitation only) Interzoo Academy – Country Session Europe – Tuesday, 12 May 2026 IPAC (International Pet Advisory Council) Summit – Wednesday, 13 May 2026 (by invitation only) EPO AGM 2026 – Thursday, 14 May 2026 (by invitation only) EPO Seminar 2026 – Thursday, 14 May 2026 (by invitation only) Meet the Experts – Thursday, 14 May 2026 Interzoo Party – Thursday, 14 May 2026 Interzoo provides a valuable platform for exchanging views on the latest developments affecting the pet sector, including ongoing EU policy and legislative initiatives. Those interested in meeting with the EPO team during Interzoo are warmly invited to get in touch in advance to arrange a meeting.
21/04/26