STAFF at a popular Bromsgrove pet shop which faced administration have expressed their relief after the firm was purchased by new owners, saving eight jobs in the process.

The Just for Pets store in Market Street was one of 25 shops in the Midlands which faced closure after the firm filed a notice to appoint administrators last month.

Hundreds of jobs were put at risk across the chain but its future was secured in a deal brokered yesterday (October 10) after newly-formed PSR Trading Limited - a sister company to the established pet sector business Pedigree Wholesale - bought them out.

It means eight jobs at the Bromsgrove shop have now been saved.

Shop manager Jess Rowley said: "We are very relieved. All of the staff are really pleased with the news and we are excited that together with the expertise of our new owners we will continue to serve our customers for many years to come. 

"I would like to thank all of our lovely customers for all the kind words and support they have shown us over the past few weeks."

Steve Brown, managing director of Pedigree Wholesale, who have been active in the pet sector for over 45 years, added: “On hearing that the future of Just for Pets was under threat Pedigree Wholesale felt we could play a role in using our pet business expertise to secure a new future for Just for Pets in Bromsgrove.

"We know Just for Pets has a great reputation for offering outstanding customer service and has developed a loyal customer base so we are pleased that Pedigree Wholesale can now create a future for the business and the brand.

“The addition of Just for Pets to the Pedigree Wholesale family reinforces our commitment to investing and driving innovation within the pet sector which we believe will support the interests of all who care about maintaining a great choice of pet products for pet lovers.”

Just for Pets will remain open in 18 locations, including Bromsgrove, but close in seven.

The deal means nearly 200 staff from its operations will be kept on.