10/12/2025
Practical Fishkeeping Magazine. has released its 2025 Readers Poll, and we’re thrilled to see so many OATA member shops were voted among the nation’s favourites.
At a time when pet shops often get unfair negative press – especially following campaigns like Lucy’s Law – it’s important to highlight just how vital good aquatic retailers are. Our research shows over 75% of licensed UK pet shops sell fish, yet a fifth of aquatic stores have stopped selling livestock in the last nine years. That’s worrying for the future of fishkeeping.
Great aquatic shops do more than sell fish. They inspire new hobbyists, offer expert advice, and let people experience the magic of seeing live fish up close – something online shopping simply can’t replace. And with around £510 million spent in UK shops on fishkeeping in 2024, they remain the beating heart of the hobby.
We’re also concerned about poor online selling practices, including fish being sent illegally through Royal Mail. Reputable shops meet welfare standards, undergo inspections, train staff properly, and provide care info – none of which is guaranteed online.
That’s why OATA believes good pet shops are great places to buy pet fish. They educate, inspire, and help prevent impulse buys. If shops are pushed away from selling live animals, where will people turn? Unregulated online ads, where 1 in 5 listings may be a scam?
Let’s continue to support responsible aquatic retailers – they keep the fishkeeping hobby thriving.
And let us know what you think makes a good aquatic shop. 👇👇👇
