Empawrium in Alva has pet project to expand the business

The owners say they will more than quadruple the site's current footprint after securing the neighbouring unit.

Empawrium, based in the town's industrial estate, has entered its second year of trading and with the additional space, aim to create a unique visitor destination for animal lovers across Scotland.

Founder of the business, Emma Clark, said: "This has always been the dream.

"From the very beginning, I could see the potential for Empawrium to become something much bigger than a pet business.

"We're not simply creating a larger shop or adding another service.

"We're creating a destination where people can spend time, learn, socialise and access everything they need for their pets in one place."

The first phase of the expansion will introduce a nature-inspired dog day care facility focused on canine wellbeing, confidence and socialisation, with further plans including an indoor training centre, a dog soft play area, and expanded retail and independent veterinary facilities.

Empawrium also plans to launch an equine range and grow its UK-wide online operation.

Future development phases will explore opportunities to add more professional services and visitor experiences.

Emma said: "The expanded retail space, growing online store and new equine range are all part of that vision, but so are the future plans for dog training, soft play, veterinary facilities and a range of experiences that simply don't exist elsewhere locally.

"We want people from across Scotland to think of Alva as somewhere worth visiting because of what we're building here.

"The dog day care is just the first step.

"What we're creating is a long-term destination for animal lovers and we're incredibly excited to finally start bringing that vision to life."

A waiting list has already been established for the day care service.

Empawrium say the expansion is expected to boost the local economy by attracting visitors, creating jobs and generating wider investment in the area.

Mike Mulraney, chairman of Mulraney Group Limited, the landlord of Empawrium’s premises, said: "On behalf of everyone at Mulraney Group I would like to congratulate Emma and the team at Empawrium on the remarkable success they have had establishing the business since moving to our Alva premises.

"It has been a great pleasure working with Emma and seeing the transformation of the business and the premises into what they have achieved today.

"We are grateful that Empawrium have chosen to stay with Mulraney Group for this new and exciting expansion bringing much needed service, business and employment to the local community.

"I am sure the new venture will continue to grow and we look forward to being a small part of their journey."

Ceteris, the business advisory firm that has supported Empawrium since its launch, also welcomed the expansion.

Mandy Campbell, business adviser at Ceteris, said: "We have supported Emma since the launch of Empawrium, working alongside her as the business has evolved and grown.

"We are delighted to continue supporting her on this exciting next chapter as she expands the business and builds on her success."

The phased expansion plan is designed to support sustainable long-term growth across retail, e-commerce, canine services, equine products, and visitor experiences.

Further updates on the development are expected in the coming months.

Dog owners interested in the new day care service can contact Empawrium directly to join the waiting list.