Tobi Skovron, CEO of Pup-Pee Solutions, has a brief chat about the two new additions to the company’s ever-growing pet waste management product lines.

How long has it taken to get these two new lines to reach the shelves (from brainstorm to creation)?

Pee-Pods have been in the works for over twelve months. We were trying to bring the right product to that market and had so many varying options. We trialed each of these options and the only one that really made sense is what you can see today:

Click here to see what Pee-Pods are all about!

Where did the idea of Pee-Pods and Wee Sponge come from?

There were a couple of factors that bought us to launching Pee-Pods but it all boils down to Pup-Pee’s desire to be revolutionary in the industry. Engrained in Pup-Pee’s DNA is the ability to deliver innovative, first class products of need.

Pee-Pods fit neatly inside our value and proposition system - to make life easier for pet owners and give them more time to enjoy the benefits of animal companionship.

When we first introduced The Pet Loo to the global pet industry we revolutionised the way in which pets toilet. The introduction of Pee-Pods is enhancing that experience and changing the game again.
What’s more, Pee-Pods retain the benefit of being safe for people, pets and the planet – something we feel passionate about.

How does Skip to My Loo differ from other training aids on the market?

Skip to My Loo is a synthetic urine that works by mimicking animal urine, as opposed to attractants currently on the market, which can contain harmful ammonia or extracts of smelly animal faeces. When applied to a surface (not only The Pet Loo), Skip to My Loo will result in the dog/cat marking over it with their own scent.

Skip’s formula is first class and unmatched!

“Skip To My Loo… My Darling” was a nursery rhyme I used to sing as a kid. The synergy between that rhyme and our Pet Loo is incredible. So when it came to creating a formulation, the synergy needed to be as strong.

In what way will these new lines will push your company further into the title of ‘Number 1 Pet Waste Management Group’?

When we first launched, we were The Pet Loo Company – a one hit wonder. What we have done with that success as a company is identified unique and specalised areas to roll out into.

We are not interested in being a “me too” we want to set the benchmark on everything we do and maintain our innovative flair. In simple we are heading towards being recognised as the number one pet waste management company in the world. The Pup-Pee team is passionate, strategic and innovative with what we do - That passion cannot be replicated!

The inventors and owners of The Pet Loo have certainly marked their territory in the Pet Industry as leaders in Pet Waste Management.   Who would have guessed that a business created in a small apartment in Melbourne Australia would be a hit with the Global Pet Industry and their human friends in Hollywood?

It all began very early this decade when Tobi Skovron and wife Simone found themselves in a wee-bit of a situation when they were forced into apartment-style living with their dog, Subii, in Melbourne.  
  
With no backyard and a dog with toilet training issues, a solution was needed to bring the garden indoors.  And so their hero product, The Pet Loo, was born – an environmentally friendly waste system for Pets that’s ideal for…you guessed it, apartment living.

From a business concept scribbled on the back of a napkin to a product that is now successfully sold in 74 countries it seems that one doggy-door has opened after another.

In 2006 (after 3 yrs or R&D), the couple showcased their invention on ABC’s reality television show ‘The New Inventors’ to see if they had a winner on their hands. The live audience concluded that they did, and they won.   Four years down the track with an Australian Pet Product of the Year award, almost 30 employees, 35 distributors and up to 250 sales staff worldwide, the owners of Pup-pee Solutions moved to LA to try their luck in the American market.

Within a year of moving to the US, their products are already flying out the door at an incredible speed.  Some of the largest retail outlets, online dealers and catalogues, such as Petco and Drs. Foster & Smith, simply can’t keep them in stock long enough. Although their goal is set at being the number one Pet waste management company in the world, they are definitely not barking up the wrong tree.

For more information:  www.thepetloo.com

By Talia Krape,

Los Angeles CA

Pup-Pee Solutions are committed to developing innovative pet waste management products and the introduction of their latest development; the Pee-Pod is a true example of that.

Click here to see it in action

Pee-Pods have been developed to kill harmful airborne bacteria contained in pet waste. The innovative Pee-Pod is a biodegradable container that fits neatly inside the catchment jug of your Pet Loo, on contact the Wee Sponge (powder) acts like a magnet rapidly absorbing the liquid waste turning it into a solidified gel.

The result significantly reduces bacteria and airborne odours, further increasing the performance of your Pets Loo. A TRUE REVOLUTION!!!!!

Pee-Pods have been scientifically formulated using patented technology to blend nature and science – creating a product that uses natural materials to give supernatural results.

With the Wee Sponge in the Pee-Pod, The Pet Loo’s catchment jug is able to hold at least 100 times its weight in liquid and binds odours in a way like no other.

The Pee-Pod and the Wee Sponge are completely safe to humans and pets, and have been engineered using biodegradable materials, further reducing the carbon footprint of pet waste.

With a lifespan of up to 3 days per Pee-Pod, once full simply replace with a fresh one!

One Size fits all sized Pet Loo*

Follow Pup-Pee on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PetLoo

Official Press Release: Click Here

 

 

*Version 3 

At just 28 years-old, Tobi Skovron knows what it takes to turn an idea into a multi-national business – hard work, determination and a really great product. His idea? “A backyard in a box” called The Pet Loo.

In 2006, Tobi and his wife Simone formed Pup-Pee Solutions Pty Ltd which manufactures The Pet Loo and a line of pet waste management products. They launched their hero product, The Pet Loo, the same year. The invention received a kick-start from Australian national television show 'The New Inventors' when the public voted it Australia's favorite new product.

Pup-Pee Solutions is now Australia's leading designer and manufacturer of pet products which it exports to more than 75 countries, including the United States. In 2009 Tobi moved to Los Angeles with his wife Simone and dogs Subii and Coopa to grow Pup-Pee Solutions’ U.S. business.

Direct Marketing Digest: What was your life like when you were young? Were your parent’s business owners, or show other entrepreneurial traits?

Tobi Skovron: I was born and raised in Sydney Australia. My parents were hard workers that wanted to ensure their kids (my sisters and I) didn’t go without. My dad was an entrepreneur who changed the landscape of his industry and some twelve years after his passing, his products and ideas still lead the automotive industry –www.asnu.com.

My inspiration is my father for doing things his way and my main motivation is to make my family (wife, mum, sisters and extended family) proud. It is the support of my immediate family that drives me and without their support and encouragement I wouldn’t be half way to where I’m right now. I value my support structure and it’s a large part of who I am.

 

DMD: Were there any business people you looked up to, or wanted to be like?

TS: Not really business people, more athletes.

It takes hard work, not just talent, to become the best in your field. Michael Jordan was my childhood hero, not only because he was the best in his era but because he was a competitor, a hard worker and the kind of person who was in the gym first and last to leave. He didn’t just happen; it was the years of hard work that made him into the Michael Jordan the world knows!

 

DMD: What was your first work experience?

TS: I was a Junior Basketball coach at my school and local club. The lessons I learnt doing layups and playing defense still guide the way I run my day-to-day business.

 

DMD: Why did you want to start your own business?

TS: For anyone that knows me personally, they know I am a highly motivated individual. While I respect corporate structures and the 9-5 grind, it’s just not for me.

I love to conceptualize, create, package, sell, deliver, expand and everything that goes along with running your own business. Working for someone is not even a consideration – I need to do my own thing, my way, from beginning to the end, it makes me tick!

 

DMD: Were you entrepreneurial at an early age? For instance, did you sell lemonade on the corner, shovel sidewalks or deliver newspapers? And if so, did your parents push you that way, or was it more part of your DNA?

TS: Yes, it is in my blood, it’s in my family and I believe I’m a born leader!

My parents didn’t push me, but my mum certainly gave me the support I needed. She has been on the sideline from day one, cheering me on. Recently, my father-in-law has been a great mentor and supporter even coming with me on round the world trips.

 

DMD: Were you involved in another business before you started the business you're in now? If yes, What happened with it?

TS: I was involved in a corporate health company and on the side ran private sessions as a personal trainer. Personal training was never a long term career, but is certainly built my skill set and gave me experience in strategic planning and setting goals. It also taught me how to deal with people, take care of those people and ensure they achieve their goals – I believe these are the basic skills of any CEO.

 

DMD: Did you ever have a business idea you didn’t act on?

TS: No, never. I do what I say and say what I feel.

 

DMD: How did you get into the "business you're in now"? How did the “Big Idea” come to you?

TS: It all came about from “need” from there it evolved into “if I need this, who else does”. Simone, my wife and I moved into an apartment with our dogs – we were both working long hours and needed a solution to those in between times when we couldn’t take our dogs outside to “do their business”.

 

DMD: Did you layout a detailed business plan for it, or was it more a napkin-sized outline?

TS: Everything is detailed, but I’ve moved away from the “business plan” and focused on the “strategic plan”. I believe it’s the daily strategy that delivers the results. I see the “strategic plan” as the short terms goals – as in what is on today and the “business plan” is the long term program – as in this year’s goal!

 

DMD: How did you finance your start up? i.e. Savings, Family, Mortgage, Loan, Angel, Private Investors?

TS: I borrowed some money from a family member. This gave me enough to register patents, and get some samples made up. From there, I sold, sold, sold. For the first year and a half I didn’t take a salary, and put everything we made back into the company. I worked two jobs and some ridiculous hours to make it happen.

Today, there is no debt in the company, we are cash flow positive and self sustaining. The initial loan was paid back almost overnight after generating fantastic interest and sales.

 

DMD: What are your thoughts about having and/or dealing with business partners? Some businesses partnerships seem to thrive, while it destroys others. If you had partners, how did you decide on an exit strategy?

TS: We established an exit strategy before we entered into the agreement. I believe it is important to stick to what you’re good at and allow others to do what they are good at.

Pup-Pee Solutions has three shareholders; everyone brings different skills to the company so in our case we’ve thrived. Early on we established that during business hours, it’s strictly business and nothing personal. Just like “white line fever” in sport – once you cross that line, you do what you have to do to win the game (in an ethical manner, of course) but at the end of the day it’s great to celebrate successes together.

 

DMD: Did you have a detailed spending plan in place for the money you started with? If so, in ballpark percentage terms, how was the money spent; (product/inventory, marketing, employees, tools/equipment, location of operation.) Or was it more, I have this much money to start and I’m going to wing it the best I can?

TS: Our start-up money was spent protecting intellectual property and creating some off-tool samples. From there the business had to stand on its own. Our first sales allowed us to manufacture inventory, do more marketing and promotion, then hiring new people. After a year we could better forecast growth, we added structure, more people and more inventory.

 

DMD: As your business progressed, was your growth self-financed through its own success? Or, did you need to raise outside money to grow? If you needed outside capital, how did you get it?

TS: Totally self financed. I don’t like to be in debt, so our aim is to sell, sell, sell, and reinvest revenue into expanding the company. We don’t spend what we don’t have, or borrow to make things happen.

 

DMD: What worked the best for you when you start promoting your company?

TS: The concept of The Pet Loo was great in theory but we needed to demonstrate this to retailers who reluctant to carry a new product, unproven in the market. I backed my products by giving well-known retailers The Pet Loo on consignment for 30 days. On the back end, I invested in PR to gain exposure in the media, drive traffic to my website and stores.

 

DMD: What DID NOT work for you?

TS: Giving payment terms to retailers. Some retailers early on took advantage and dodged paying bills when they became due.

 

DMD: Was there any big break that really got you off the ground?

TS: I applied to go on an Australian television show called The New Inventors and received a letter thanking me for my application and informing me that if my invention was chosen I’d hear back from them within 8 months. I got the call within three days, the following week we were in Sydney filming the show which went to air two weeks later. During that two weeks I recruited a PR firm to ensure every media contact they had watched the show. After that we were inundated with interest, sales and media opportunities.

 

DMD: What is the smartest thing you’ve done while running your company?

TS: I recognized very quickly that while I have the drive and hunger to succeed, it is so important to seek the advice and assistance from mentors and accomplished business people. I believe that we’ve been so successful because I’m not shy to ask questions.

 

DMD: What was the toughest time or “unexpected challenge” you experienced when you started your business, and how did you get through it?

TS: I have met a lot of honest, hardworking people but I’ve also come into contact with some very dishonest and unethical people. Unfortunately, you often find out who’s who the hard way. We had to see out the contractual arrangements we had with one of these people which put us behind, but it taught us an important lesson about forming relationships with the right people for the right reasons.

 

DMD: What do you think was/is the key factor that made YOU successful, when so many others have failed in starting and building a business?

TS: My approach is to deliver innovative products with first class customer service. From day one to date, that’s exactly what I’ve done.

I’ve focused on building relationships with key customers and delivered quality products on time, every time. This builds credibility and encourages word of mouth promotion. The biggest obstacle is to form the first relationship; from there you earn people’s trust and respect and expand your opportunities. People do business with people they like – I’d like to think I’m a likable person and if not, a very hard working, honest one!

 

DMD: When you’re making business decisions, are you more likely to go with your head or your gut?

TS: There is a fine line, I often go with wearing my heart on sleeve but with time learning to create a balance between both – It definitely comes with experience.

 

DMD: When do you do your best thinking?

TS: If it’s not at 3am when I wake with a rush of ideas then it’s definitely when out on my bike at 5:30am.

 

DMD: How have things changed in marketing since you started, and how has it stayed the same? What do you think the future holds for marketing your company?

TS: Right now I’m still doing what I did to get this business to where it is today. Our operations out of Australia are well established. This year I relocated to join my US-based team - I often think to myself “what did I do to get Pet Loo Australia to where it is today” then I work out a strategy for a population 10-times the size.

 

DMD: Do you have any worries about the future that may affect your company? And if so, what are you doing now to be prepared?

TS: When you have a successful product you are bound to become a target for counterfeiters. While we have very strong registered intellectual property (Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, Design Protection etc.) and plan to protect our rights when threats surface, this causes me the most anxiety.

 

DMD: How educated do you think you have to be to start and build a business? Do you think you need a college education to be successful? Or do you think any average person can start and build a business in today’s world, if they work hard and are persistent?

TS: If you’re passionate, strategic and apply yourself accordingly you’re off to a good start! At Pup-Pee Solutions we have employees with and without degrees. Education is important but if you don’t love what you’re doing it doesn’t matter how many degrees you have. Surround yourself with people who have been successful in their time (advisors), people with common sense, drive, and determination.

 

DMD: Which is more important, talent or experience?

TS: I have drive, energy and vision BUT still have a lot to learn. I’ve implemented a board of directors to advise me and channel my energy – it’s this mix that has put Pup-Pee where it is today.

 

DMD: What is better, Money or Ideas?

TS: In 2003, Simone and I had a fantastic idea – The Pet Loo, being 22 & 23 years old at the time our access to cash was limited. We obviously needed money to bring our “idea” to life and then to market. While money certainly allowed us to get to market I think it’s far more important to understand “profit and loss”. You categorically need to be able to sell product and make a margin on it to make your business sustainable.

 

DMD: What’s the best advice you’ve received?

TS: Don’t live beyond your means. Put simply, if it’s not in the bank, I’m not buying.

DMD: What most impresses you about a person?

TS: Passion, efficiency, attention to detail and initiative.

 

DMD: What’s one thing they should have told you, about being a business leader?

TS: There is no such thing as a 9-5 job. If you have to work all night to meet deadlines – then that’s what you have to do. And, never compromise your values.

 

DMD: In your experience and opinion, is there any industry/business you would advise people to stay away from today. If so, why?

TS: No. Follow your dreams and passion! Do what makes you happy.

 

DMD: Are there any areas you see right now that you think offer great opportunity to get into today?

TS: Certainly. There are many companies in the industry that are folding. I see that as an opportunity to buy brands or companies and incorporate them into our corporate structure. I don’t want to dilute our existing brands but I know that it’s smart to diversify.

 

DMD: Who inspires you now?

TS: So many different people from all areas: Family, my Mum – her strength and determination will rival anyone. Extended Family, my father-in-law – cool, calm and collected in his approach to everything. Sportsman, Michael Jordan – he’s the best there ever was and potentially ever will be at what he did. Business, Richard Branson – I just love his approach and “out of the box thinking.” Immediate circle, Mark Stern – former president of United Pet Group, a global pet industry KING!

 

DMD: What’s the most overlooked secret to success?

Answer: Hard work! Nothing happens over night and sacrifices need to be made along the way. Some people who walk into a pet store will see our products and assume “that guy is making big bucks” but the effort to get it into stores is underrated.

 

DMD: Do you have any pointers or words of wisdom to give Entrepreneurs and small businesses that want to follow in your footsteps?

TS:

1. Surround yourself with people that have been there and done that. Understand where you’re at as a professional and don’t be shy to ask questions and learn.

2. Make sure you get advice from people who aren’t emotionally involved and can be objective about your business idea.

3. Protect yourself and your ideas. Discuss your ideas under confidentiality. If product related, register patents. These are invaluable when dealing with the big customers.

4. Back yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do it. This only comes into effect after points 1, 2 & 3 have been ticked!

 

DMD: Do you have any words to live by?

TS: Activity leads to results!

 

Personal and Company details if public:

Year Company founded: 2006, after 3 years of Research & Development

Number of employees: 12

Short Company Description: Pup-Pee Solutions are pursuing their goal of being a worldwide solution in the category of pet waste management. Pup-Pee has proven their success in multiple markets worldwide with their product range. More info:www.thepetloo.com

Interviewee’s age: 28

Hometown: Sydney, Australia. Relocated to Los Angeles, California in 2009.

Family: Wife Simone, two dogs Subii & Coopa.

 

Article written by: Direct Marketing Digest 

http://www.directmarketingdigest.com/node/15 

Launched in 2006 after 3 years of research & development by Australian entrepreneur of the year, Tobi Skovron, and former Vet nurse & animal assisted therapist Simone Skovron, Pup-Pee Solutions is an Australian business success story that has expanded worldwide. 

With offices in Melbourne Australia, Los Angeles California & New York City The Pet Loo is Pup-Pee’s flagship brand. The Pet Loo replicates a backyard and is a safe and hygienic device that allows dogs & cats to do their business in a mess free, sanitary manner. It is suitable for apartment dwellers, the elderly, office dogs, boat owners, plush garden owners, cold climates and grassless backyards.  

Pup-Pee has won multiple awards for its ever evolving Pet Waste Management range of products and has successfully sold them through tens of thousands of independent dealers, multi-chain retailers as well as national pet retail giants in numerous markets. 

Further growth is an ongoing objective for Pup-Pee and they are currently seeking multiple partners with experience to expand their current distribution channels. 

The success of Pup-Pee Solutions to date is all about innovative first class products merged with first class service. The team within the organization is highly professional, motivated and passionate about pets. Pup-Pee has built an honest and reputable name within the global pet industry servicing Vets, Doggy Day Care Centers, Breeders, Obedience Professionals & even Groomers. 

Keen to discuss business? Feel free to jump online at www.thepetloo.com to find out more about Pup-Pee Solutions – who they are and how they go about their business. 

Follow Pup-Pee on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PetLoo

Contact:

Los Angeles (Global Business): +1 310 591 8123 | Email Now

New York (US National Business): +1 646 383 8886 | Email Now

Australia (AU & NZ Business): +61 9415 8599 | Email Now

  Videos & TV appearance: www.youtube.com/PetLooUSA

Since 1967, H.H. Backer Associates Inc. has tapped into all facets of the pet trade industry with its trade magazines, trade shows and educational conferences. As a highly respected and progressive force in the constantly evolving pet industry, H.H. Backer Associates Inc. delivers quality buyers and quality results.

On Friday the 2^nd of October the annual H.H Backer show will play host to the US pet industry Pup-Pee Solutions will exhibit through two of its east coast distributors

Zeus & Co – Booth 4528

Pet Stores USA – Booth 4711

Pup-Pee CEO and Global Operations Director Tobi Skovron will be at the show, so be sure to drop by both booths and enquire more about Pup-Pee’s core range.

“Our offerings to both our distribution and retail partners have been exceptional. This has solidified our position in the global pet industry as the number 1 pet waste management company in the world” Skovron says confidently.

In just four years the company has exploded, and now is enjoying success in 73 countries and earning a devoted following from those who otherwise could not own a dog.  

“Pets and people’s lifestyles are often conflict. The Pet Loo is a solution rather than just a product,” Tobi remarks.

“Our success is genuine and the partners (both distributors and retailers) who have jumped on board have made a lot of money.” Tobi implores all retailers to “have a go and take a chance,” citing that too much stagnancy can be very detrimental in a slow market. 

While several imitators have cropped up, none come close to Pup Pee Solutions. They aggressively preserve their patent protection and intellectual property, ensuring the consumer gets only the best quality product at a reasonable cost.

For more information visit: www.thepetloo.com Tobi and the US based team look forward to seeing you at the H.H Backer show on Friday!   

   

SuperZoo is by far the industry’s most valuable trade show - bringing together buyers, sellers and experts from all corners of the pet industry for three days to do business and sharpen their skills, all in one highly profitable place.

SuperZoo 2008 featured over 600 industry exhibitors – both established leaders and newcomers – demonstrating the latest products and innovations available in the pet industry.

SuperZoo University encompasses educational seminars and panel discussions aimed at preparing you for emerging trends and business success.

The Pup-Pee Solutions team will be there working out of the “Wilson & Associates Power Isle” in booth 2241. Two of Pup-Pee’s USA distribution partners will also be showcasing Pup-Pee's Products on at their booth (VSI booth 1837 & UTM booth 1512) – be sure to drop in and meet the entire team US & Canadian based team

Pup-Pee Solutions is a family owned and operated company, with a vision for developing unique innovative pet product of need.

Conceptualised in 2003 and launched globally in 2006, Pup-Pee Solutions actively sells its range of innovative & patent protected pet products to in excess of 73 regions of the world.

Pup-Pee’s is well known for its “Hero Brand” The Pet Loo, but now days the company has evolved into a leader in Pet Waste Management – worldwide!

Those attending the show looking for exciting and innovative waste management products are encouraged to stop by the booth (2241).

This interview is with Tobi Skovron of Pup-Pee Solutions. They are a manufacturer and distributor of indoor pet waste management products that are innovative, convenient, and green!  Enjoy the interview below:

K9 Cuisine: What is your story-how did you get into this business?

Tobi: In 2003, I relocated 1,000 km south of my home town Sydney Australia to be with my girlfriend Simone who was studying at the time.  A few months after relocating I bought Simone a Cockapoo called Subii.

Living in an apartment with a dog we constantly faced issues with her needing to go to the toilet at inconvenient times. Any accidents on the balcony would rot the wooden surface. Every time we were out of the apartment we’d worry about the carpets!

We decided there must be a better way. We needed a permanent, hygienic solution and realized that that many others were in the same position.

After a couple of years working with industrial designers, dye makers, injection moulding specialists, veterinarians, obedience professionals, animal behaviourists & patent lawyers The Pet Loo was born.

K9 Cuisine: What is the secret to your success with the your business-how have you gotten to where you are today?

Tobi: Passion, strategy and sheer drive!

Some say I’m cursed with ambition, I think in reality I’m the type of person that is prepared to roll the dice and take a chance (calculated of course) in pursuit of what I’m passionate about.

This “business” is not about making money… it’s all about both Simone and I having an appreciation for our pets and the lifestyle that we lead first and foremost. This ultimately has driven us to want every person around the world to be a pet owner!

We always take care of our customers, export partners and retailers first - without these relationships our business would never have gotten off the ground.

Money has never been a focus we both view it as a bonus to what we do.

K9 Cuisine: What makes you different?

Tobi: I’m the type of person that likes to lead the pack, rather than follow!

I like to think inside the square, as everyone thinks “outside the square”. I have tremendous drive and energy but also recognize where I’m at as a professional and surround myself with successors that have been there and done that before my time, asking the questions to improve my skills.

I’m prepared to roll up my sleeves and work hard and make it happen by chasing it down rather than just waiting for things to come to me.

K9 Cuisine: What is it about dogs that you love?

I have grown up with pets, but it was Simone, who is a qualified social worker with “Animal Assisted Therapy” training, who helped me gain an understanding of the benefits of animal companionship.

Her guidance and passion helped me change career paths. My dogs come to the office with me every day and most recently I relocated from Australia to Los Angeles and they made the move with me!

My dogs are not something I have, but rather the lifestyle I lead.

K9 Cuisine: What is the neatest part about your work?

Tobi: I’m doing what I love!

K9 Cuisine: Where do you see the pet product industry going?

Tobi: Like every other industry at the moment it is changing. Many independent retailers are being acquired by major chains.  I also  think we’ll see continued growth in the “green” product sector.

K9 Cuisine: How do you fit into that-what are your future plans?

Tobi: Creating green products is what we do. Pup-Pee Solutions is an environmentally-friendly company focused making products that are safe for people, pets and the planet. From The Pet Loo to our No Range cleaning solutions - all of our products are chemical free, biodegradable and environmentally friendly. We plan to stay in the Pet Waste Management sector of the pet industry.

K9 Cuisine: How can people find out more about you and the your business?

Tobi:
Our Website: www.thepetloo.com.
Our Blog: www.thepetloo.com/blog.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PetLoo.

K9  Cuisine: Tell us a little about you!

Tobi: There is a video interview with me here, feel free to click here to watch it!

Thank you so much!

Tobi Skovron of Pup-Pee Solutions

It was on July 5, 2006 (after three years of R&D) that Simone and I launched The Pet Loo on the Australian TV hit show “The New Inventors”.

 http://www.abc.net.au/tv/newinventors/txt/s1657033.htm 

We won “Peoples choice award” that evening and Pup-Pee Solutions was born, with sales for our hero brand selling in excess of 500 units within the first 24 hours of operations.

Since then we have worked exceptionally hard around the clock to export The Pet Loo to in excess of 73 regions of the world (proving ourselves one unit at a time in some markets). We have also bought into the company, engineers and a biochemist to focus on line extension and value add products!

Pup-Pee has won a host of awards and is recognized  as a young innovative pet manufacturing company that has been built on hard work and a passion for pets.

I personally have been mentored by some phenomenal people (Jack & Molly Iglicki, Mark Stern & Nathan Garnet) who have all elevated my skill set and understanding of the Pet Business, which I now operate on a global scale.

I thank the support of Pup-Pee’s immediate team, Export & Retailers partners (worldwide). We are achieving our goals of dominating the “Pet Waste Management” sector of the Industry and having an absolute ball whilst doing so… I hope you find our enthusiasm and passion infectious!

While I personally feel I’m only five percent down the track of what I’d like to achieve with Pup-Pee Solutions today - I would like to sincerely thank everyone that has been involved with either Pup-Pee OR myself personally.

 Your support has made Pup-Pee Solutions what it is today and your advise (and at times constructive criticism) has made me into the professional I am today! 

I look forward to continuing on this journey and going from strength to strength with you!

 

Thank you & warmest regards,

Tobi 

Tobi Skovron

Global Operations Director

Pup-Pee Solutions Pty Ltd | Pup-Pee Solutions USA LLC

*Awards / Recognition* 

* Market Watch - Wall Street Journal

* New Inventors “People’s Choice Award” – ABC TV.

* Australian Pet Product of the Year –The Pet Industry Association of Australia.

* TOP 50 Favourite Exporters - The Australian Institute of Export (Dynamic Business Magazine)

* Best Merchandised Exhibit - Pet Industry Association of Australia

* International Design Award - Short List

* Australian Entrepreneur of the Year - Anthill

“People support what they help create,” says Jerry Lynch from GMP Friction Products. And that’s exactly what we feel at Pup-Pee Solutions.

 

Our products were created out of necessity for pet owners and their pets. Every step of the creation process we constantly raised the question “what do people want?” And once we had all practical bases perfected and manufactured we were able to look at the product image. 

Our enzyme range of cleaning solutions; Wee Care, Whiff Off and Liquid Ate were launched over a year ago and are selling incredibly well. With the release of three sister products just last month; Pup Care, Critter Care and Kitty Care, we felt it was time to set our Marketing Gurus loose on creating a more uniformed and attractive look and feel.

 

“There is no way to mistake the ubiquitous trademarked Coca-Cola bottle with any of their competitors.” [1] Our aim was to create a look that would “pop”. An image that was highly recognizable no matter where it was positioned on the retailer’s shelf, or in which country it was being sold. The same notion applied to the naming of our new products.

“It may be true that a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, but would it sell as well? After all, no one ever named a child after the flossflower. So it goes with new products. However good it is, the name attached to it has to do its job, too.”[2]

 

Pup-Pee Solutions has gone beyond traditional approaches on branding to make what we hope to be an irresistible brand identity. 

Our enzyme range products are available now. Click here to find your nearest retailer.

[1] Bernd H. Schmitt and Alex Simonson, Marketing Aesthetics: The Strategic Management of Brands, Identity and Image.

[2] What’s In a Name – Creating a Corporate or Product Identity – Marketing, Robert Maynard.