From Cages to Homes: The Journey to Improve Hamster Welfare

Clayton talks to Al Sherrington, the founder of Bandaby, a company dedicated to revolutionising hamster care. Al shares his journey from working in big tech to recognising the dire need for better hamster welfare products after a visit to a pet store revealed the poor quality of cages and accessories still being sold. He discusses the importance of creating a home for hamsters that prioritises their welfare, emphasising the need for larger enclosures, proper bedding, and engaging environments KEY TAKEAWAYS There is a significant lack of awareness regarding hamster welfare in the pet industry, with many traditional products being harmful or inadequate for their needs The design and aesthetics of hamster enclosures play a crucial role in attracting first-time buyers. By creating visually appealing and functional homes, it is possible to encourage better welfare practices  Extensive research and engagement with welfare organisations and rescue centres are essential for understanding the needs of hamsters The current pet retail market often prioritises instant gratification, leading to poor purchasing decisions. There is a need for a shift towards more thoughtful buying practices BEST MOMENTS "Everyone else is selling cages, we want to sell a home."  "Animals should not be bought like a Happy Meal from McDonald's."  "I think you can have an amazing home from a welfare point of view and still encourage all the enjoyment of having a hamster."  "If you show people what's possible, how many other people will consider them as an alternative pet?" HOST BIO Clayton Payne is an industry veteran of three decades of working in the pet industry. Brought up working in his parents' pet store, Clayton has seen the industry evolve over five different decades and has been on the cutting edge of the industry since the nineties. Building pet businesses from scratch, establishing multi-national distribution chains and having worked in every aspect of the industry, Clayton has a rare insight into the Pet Industry that is rivalled by few.  Clayton has been the spearhead of many of the industry's changes and has introduced numerous new concepts to market with a trail of success behind him. He has worked in numerous countries within the pet industry, speaks four different languages and has established both import and export relationships on all continents (excluding Antarctica). As well as being COO of one of the UKs fastest growing insect technology companies, Clayton is a Pet industry consultant who has consulted for many household brands and delivers sales training to pet trade professionals.https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-payne-a6772244/ https://www.tiktok.com/@petbusinessdisruptors https://www.youtube.com/@PetBusinessDisruptors This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/