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.

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.

On January 19th, 2026, EPO Board met in Berlin to review progress and prepare for the year ahead. Discussions focused on continuing strengthening the organisation’ secretariat and ongoing activities. Board members exchanged on key EU affairs priorities as well as upcoming events, outreach, and membership activities, while reviewing the 2025 final budget and 2026 draft budget. The meeting reaffirmed EPO’s commitment to effective EU engagement by strengthening EPO as the voice of the pet sector at European level. A special thanks to ZZF and its team for hosting the meeting at its Berlin office.