Beyond the big six and traditional practice: Exploring diverse veterinary business models (LVS25)

The concept of what constitutes a veterinary practice has changed dramatically over the past 25 years. There are now multiple ownership and practice service delivery models. There are also many more funding options available compared to the traditional approach of financing a practice through a loan from high street bank. These changes come with lots of exciting opportunities, particularly around innovation in customer service and employee experience. However, these changes have not been without challenges, not least a continuing ‘them v us’ narrative between those who champion the independent practice model compared to the corporate model. This session promises to be a lively and informative discussion about the relative merits of different business models for delivering veterinary care

• Understand the common business models that exist in the UK veterinary sector today.
• Describe the advantages and disadvantages of corporate, traditional independent and newer models of practice ownership.
• Understand the focus different business models have on customer service, service delivery and employee engagement and experience.

Chairperson

Rob Williams, President - BVA

Speakers

Caroline Collins, BVetMed MRCVS GPCertFelP, Director - Pennard Vets

Russell Welsh, BVSc, BSc (Hons) MRCVS, Founder and COO - Creature Comforts Vetcare

Gudrun Ravetz, Group Chief Medical Officer - IVC Evidensia

Guy Killick, BVSc MRCVS, Founder - Palace Vets

Presented at LVS 2025

Friday, 21 November 2025, 14:00-15:00, BVA Congress