FROM PASSION TO FASHION: PAW AFFAIRE'S PET ACCESSORY ODYSSEY

During our discussion with Mrs. Saloni Mehra, Co-Founder of Paw Affaire, she shares the motivations behind her foray into the pet industry, the niche she aims to address in the world of accessories, and the philanthropic initiatives that underpin her work.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE PET ACCESSORIES BUSINESS?

The inspiration for Paw Affaire stemmed from my beloved pet, Fluffy, which ultimately transformed my life. While searching for products for him, I noticed that many items in the pet industry were predominantly made of plastic and nylon, causing discomfort for my furry companion. It was clear that this material posed a choking hazard for him. Fuelled by love and necessity, Paw Affaire came into being.

Situated in the picturesque French town of Pondicherry, our company specializes in producing high-quality, Indian-made pet accessories. These include collars, leashes, and even poop bags, all crafted from soft and comfortable cotton. Our focus is on sustainability, ensuring our products are eco-friendly. Moreover, we are dedicated to empowering women by providing employment opportunities. In our factory of 10, nine of our skilled workers are women. At Paw Affaire, we are committed to a sustainable approach, prioritizing animal welfare and comfort. This ethos has been at the heart of our journey from the very beginning.

WHEN AND DID YOU START PAW AFFAIRE?

Our journey began in January 2022. After careful preparation, we conducted a trial launch on October 6th, 2022 in Gurgaon. This event took the form of a lively "paw party" held in one of the DLF societies, attended by 40 furry guests. The celebration included games, cakes, and the distribution of our pet products, marking it as a trial run for our offerings. The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, providing us with valuable feedback.

BESIDES YOUR LOVE PETS, WHAT GAPS DID YOU SEE IN THE PET ACCESSORIES INDUSTRY THAT MADE YOU DIVE INTO THIS SPACE?