Purina PetCare has announced the launch of the Purina Partners Programme, through which the company will offer practices their own business consultant tasked with giving advice that reflects the unique challenges facing each practice.

Through the Partners Programme, practices will be able to get support and advice in four main areas:

1. Clinic+
   Helping the practice understand how it looks and feels through the eyes of clients, and optimising the layout, design and merchandising to complement the existing clinic brand.
2. Client+
   Advice to help the practice strengthen relationships with clients, with the aim of increasing client visits and sales of pet food, treatment and accessories from the practice.
3. Knowledge+
   Partners will be able to select from a range of learning and CPD options, including staff training, manuals, 'lunch and learn', sponsored congress attendance and webinars which cover Purina's nutritional research and training, and commercial insights into soft-selling and consumer behaviour. 
4. Food+
   Helping the practice to maximise food sales - a proven way to increase turnover and profitability - with tools like product samples and brochures, Kitten and Puppy packs and Point of Sale materials.

Chris Nickson, Senior Brand Manager, Purina Vet Channel, said: "As a Partner, practices will work with a dedicated Purina representative who will develop and implement a tailored business plan which is perfectly suited to their clinic and clients. The Programme is designed to be completely flexible, allowing vets to select and tailor elements to suit themselves. Purina represents a solid business partner and will be able to provide sound advice to any practice by drawing on its extensive business experience as a pet care brand and as part of the global corporation Nestlé."

The Partners Programme is fully funded by Purina, so there is no financial commitment on the part of the practice, however participating practices are required to recommend Purina diets as first choice.

In return, the company says the Programme will help optimise the pet owner experience at your clinic, and could help drive growth, attract new clients and boost turnover.

Nickson concludes: "With absolutely no financial outlay, clinics could see an increase in client numbers and profitability, the Purina Partners Programme provides practice managers with a helpful and effective solution."

To sign up for Purina Partners Programme, call the Purina Petcare Team on 0800 212 161.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.