Insights and Inspiration for Pet Brands
Pet Business Marketing: What It Really Costs (and Why You Can’t Afford to Skip It)
The real cost of not marketing your pet business and how to save money, time and stress by getting the right support. So you’ve poured your heart and probably a chunk of your savings into building a brilliant pet brand. Your products are ready, your website’s live, and maybe you’ve even dabbled in social media. But the customers? They’re not quite pouring in. It’s a common scenario in the pet industry: A great product, a beautiful website, and no marketing strategy. And if that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Why Pet Businesses Struggle Without Marketing It’s easy to think that if your product is good enough, it’ll sell. Or that posting now and then on Instagram will keep things ticking over. But the truth is: Marketing isn’t optional. It’s essential. Without a clear, consistent plan to raise awareness and drive traffic, your brand stays invisible no matter how brilliant your product is. We see this all the time with new pet brands: They invest heavily in stock, packaging and design… then freeze at the marketing stage. They under price marketing or assume it's just social media posts. They try to DIY everything and burn out before their brand gains traction. What Happens When You Don’t Budget for Marketing? The cost of not marketing is real. It looks like: Website traffic staying flat (no matter how sleek it looks) New products launching to silence Discounting just to make a sale Watching other, less polished brands gain traction because they’re showing up, and you're not Is Marketing Expensive? It Doesn’t Have to Be. It’s not about having a massive budget it’s about being smart with the one you’ve got. Whether you’re a dog treat brand, a grooming business, or a boutique pet store, you need to know where to invest your time and money for real returns. That might look like a mix of: Email marketing – Still one of the best performing tools for repeat sales Social media content – Done right, it’s more than just likes; it’s visibility and trust Ads – Strategic, well targeted ads can drive real traffic with small spends Influencer or UGC partnerships – Especially powerful in the pet world where authenticity matters SEO and blog content – So you show up when pet owners are searching for what you offer But here’s where it gets easier... Save Time, Cut Costs, and Scale Smarter with the Right Support If marketing is draining your time or eating into your budget without delivering results, it might be time to get help. Working with a pet-focused marketing agency (like ours) means: Preferential rates from trusted service providers (photographers, influencers, email platforms, ad spend, etc.) Access to proven tools and systems no more trial and error Ready made content strategies built for the pet industry Support that’s tailored to your niche and your goals More time for you to actually run your business, not just promote it Let’s be honest: running a pet business is demanding enough. Marketing shouldn’t be a guessing game or a full time job on top. Final Thoughts: You Can’t Afford Not to Market So yes, marketing costs money. But the real cost? That comes from sitting still. Every week without strategy is a week your competitors are showing up, building trust, and getting in front of your customers. If you’re serious about growing your pet brand, start treating your marketing like the investment it is not an afterthought. And if you want help cutting the guesswork and fast tracking your results, we’re here. hello@socialpack.co.uk
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Are Giveaways Dead? Why Pet Brands Should Rethink Their Prize Strategy
Giveaways have been a go to tactic for pet brands for years. They’re fun, fast, and at least on paper effective. But in 2025, the rules of engagement have shifted. We’re seeing fewer results from traditional prize draws and more fatigue from audiences who have grown wise to the 'like, tag, share' formula. So, are giveaways dead? Not quite. But it might be time for pet brands to rethink how they’re using them. The Problem With the Traditional Giveaway Model Let’s be honest: the old school giveaway format doesn’t cut through anymore. Pet owners have seen it all before and when your post looks like every other “win this bundle” post, it’s hard to stand out. Add to that the fact that many giveaways attract people who are just in it for the free stuff, not your brand or product. You might get a spike in followers, but they often disappear once the winner’s announced. Worse still, it can hurt your engagement rate as unengaged entrants dilute your real audience. The Shift: From Freebies to Value What today’s pet audience wants isn’t just free, it’s useful, relevant, and meaningful. We’re seeing brands have far more success when their giveaway is part of a larger campaign or tied to storytelling. Instead of giving away a generic bundle, try offering something that: Aligns with your values and product purpose Helps your audience in a genuine way (e.g. “win a year of joint support for your senior dog”) Feels exclusive or experience-based (e.g. a 1-on-1 session with your head trainer) It’s not about getting more entries. It’s about attracting the right entries. 3 Smart Giveaway Strategies for 2025 1. The Purpose-Driven GiveawayTie your giveaway to a message. Launching a new dental chew? Make the giveaway part of an educational campaign around pet dental health. That way, the prize reinforces your product’s purpose. 2. The Loyalty LoopOnly allow entry through your email list or via a recent purchase. This rewards existing customers and makes your giveaway feel more valuable to loyal followers. 3. The Collaborative ApproachPartner with another pet brand, rescue, or influencer to co-host a giveaway that brings new eyes to your brand and adds social credibility. So... Are Giveaways Dead? Not at all. But the lazy giveaway? That’s on its last legs. As pet marketing experts, we always come back to this: does your campaign provide value? Does it reflect your brand's purpose? Does it attract the right people? If the answer’s no, it’s time to rethink. And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s where we come in. At Social Pack, we build campaigns that connect, not just convert. Ready to run a smarter giveaway? Let’s talk: hello@socialpack.co.uk
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Functional vs. Lifestyle Pet Products: What Pet Owners Really Want 🛍️🐾
Pet owners today are more discerning than ever, and they’re looking for products that offer both functionality and style. Some prioritise practical benefits, while others focus on aesthetics and lifestyle appeal. Successful pet brands find ways to blend both, ensuring their products meet real needs while also fitting seamlessly into their customers’ lifestyles. What Defines a Functional Pet Product? Functional pet products solve a specific problem or make daily pet care easier. These include: Orthopaedic dog beds for older dogs with joint issues. Hands free leashes for active pet owners. Slow feeder bowls to prevent fast eating and bloating. These products appeal to owners who prioritise practicality and long term health benefits over aesthetics. The Rise of Lifestyle Driven Pet Products While function is essential, lifestyle pet products are on the rise. Owners want their pets to look stylish while still being comfortable. These include: Designer collars and accessories that reflect personal style. Matching pet and owner outfits for social media appeal. Luxury pet furniture that blends with modern home décor. Many pet owners want the best of both worlds, making it crucial for brands to balance practicality with lifestyle appeal in their product offerings. Finding the Sweet Spot Between Function and Fashion Brands that merge function and aesthetics win big. A well designed pet harness that’s both ergonomic and stylish attracts both practical buyers and trend focused pet parents. The key is positioning your product as both useful and aspirational. Want to create pet products that blend function and style seamlessly? Social Pack helps pet brands craft winning marketing strategies that attract both practical and lifestyle focused pet owners. Let’s make your brand stand out get in touch today! hello@socialpack.co.uk
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Easter Content Ideas for Pet Brands: Engage, Delight & Boost Sales 🐰🐾
Spring is in the air, and Easter is the perfect opportunity for pet brands to engage their audience with creative, seasonal content. Whether you’re looking to drive sales, increase engagement, or simply spread some festive joy, Easter themed marketing can help your brand stand out. From adorable pet friendly Easter egg hunts to limited edition treats, here are some egg citing ideas to make the most of this seasonal opportunity. 🐣✨ Host an Easter Themed Giveaway or Contest 🎁🐶 Giveaways are a fantastic way to boost engagement, increase brand awareness, and reward your loyal customers. Easter provides the perfect backdrop for a fun and interactive contest. Ideas to Try: Best Easter Photo: Encourage pet parents to dress an easter themed photo shoot and share the photo for a chance to win. Golden Egg Hunt: Hide Easter eggs in your online store or social media posts and offer a discount or freebie to those who find them. Guess the Treats in the Jar: Post an image of a jar filled with pet treats and ask followers to guess the number inside for a chance to win a product bundle. Create an Easter Gift Guide for Pet Owners 🎀🐕 Easter isn’t just for chocolate pet owners love spoiling their pets with seasonal goodies too! A well crafted Easter gift guide can highlight your products while providing inspiration for pet parents. What to Include: Limited edition Easter pet treats (carrot-flavoured chews, Easter bunny biscuits, etc.). Spring themed pet toys (plush bunnies, pastel rope toys, Easter egg shaped squeakers). Seasonal accessories (bandanas, bow ties, themed collars and harnesses). Easter grooming bundles to keep pets fresh for spring. Launch a Limited Edition Easter Product 🛒🐾 Nothing sparks excitement like a seasonal, limited edition product. Whether it’s a new flavour of treats, a themed toy, or a spring inspired grooming product, offering something special for Easter can boost sales and create a sense of urgency. Ideas to Try: Easter themed treat boxes with special packaging. Bunny or chick shaped pet treats. Floral or pastel coloured accessories for spring. A “Spring Fresh” grooming set featuring fresh, floral scents. Organise a Pet Friendly Easter Egg Hunt 🥚🐕 Easter egg hunts aren’t just for kids pets love them too! Whether hosted in store, at a local park, or as a virtual challenge, an Easter egg hunt can bring your community together. How to Set It Up: Hide pet safe treats in plastic eggs for an interactive game. Offer a prize for the pet who finds the most eggs. Partner with a pet friendly venue or shelter to host a community event. Create a virtual scavenger hunt where customers search for hidden Easter eggs on your website. Share Easter Themed Social Media Content 📱✨ Social media is a great way to engage your audience with lighthearted, fun, and festive content. Easter is the perfect time to create shareable posts that drive engagement. Post Ideas: DIY Easter pet treat recipes – Show followers how to make homemade dog friendly Easter treats. Behind the scenes spring photoshoot – Feature your team’s pets in Easter outfits and accessories. Interactive polls & quizzes – Ask questions like “What Easter treat would your pet love most?” Funny Easter pet videos – Encourage UGC (User Generated Content) by getting customers to share their pet’s reactions to Easter goodies. A pet accessory brand could run an Instagram Story poll asking followers to vote on their favourite Easter themed bandana design before launching it in store. 🐕🐰 Partner with Influencers for Easter Campaigns 🐾🤝 Influencer marketing is a great way to amplify your Easter promotions and reach a wider audience. By working with pet influencers, you can showcase your products in an engaging, organic way. Ways to Collaborate: Sponsored Easter haul videos where influencers showcase your themed products. Affiliate discount codes for Easter promotions. Easter unboxing videos featuring limited edition items. Instagram takeovers where an influencer shares their Easter pet traditions. Easter presents a huge opportunity for pet brands to engage their audience, drive sales, and create memorable content. Whether it’s through giveaways, limited edition products, pet friendly events, or influencer partnerships, embracing seasonal marketing can help your brand stand out. 🐶🐾 🐣 Ready to craft the perfect Easter marketing campaign for your pet brand? Let’s make it happen get in touch today! hello@socialpack.co.uk
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The Psychology of Pet Owners: How Emotions Drive Buying Decisions 🐾❤️
Buying decisions in the pet industry are heavily influenced by emotions. Pet owners don’t just see their animals as pets they are family members, which means their purchasing choices are deeply tied to love, care, and trust. Understanding this emotional connection allows brands to create marketing strategies that resonate and drive customer loyalty. Why Emotions Matter in Pet Marketing People make emotional decisions first, then justify them with logic. This is especially true for pet owners, who are willing to spend more on premium products if they believe it benefits their furry friend. Messages that evoke love, happiness, nostalgia, or protection tend to perform better. How to Use Emotional Triggers in Your Marketing To connect with pet parents, use storytelling and emotional brand messaging. Here’s some ideas of how you could do it: Show real pet owners experiencing joy and connection with their pets. Highlight how your product solves a real problem (e.g., anxiety relief, health benefits, comfort). Use compelling visuals that showcase pets as part of the family. Brands That Have Mastered Emotional Pet Marketing Companies that successfully tap into pet owner emotions create lifelong customers. From heartwarming commercials to user generated content that showcases real life pet experiences, the most effective pet marketing goes beyond selling a product it builds an emotional bond. Want to tap into the emotions that drive pet owners’ buying decisions? Social Pack can help craft powerful, emotion led marketing strategies that boost engagement and sales. Let’s create campaigns pet parents can’t resist get in touch today! hello@socialpack.co.uk
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Why Local Cat Shows Could Be a Big Win for Pet Brands
This past weekend, we had the pleasure of supporting Felinology, a growing name in the cat show world, as they hosted their latest event and what a weekend it was. The turnout was strong, the energy was high, and the passion for cats was clear in every corner of the venue. From breed enthusiasts and first time show visitors to curious kids and cat loving families, this was more than just a cat competition, it was a community. One of the standout features of the show was the children’s education area, which proved to be a huge hit. Felinology’s team introduced the concept of the “Catbassador Trail” a fun and engaging activity where children were encouraged to find all the “Catbassador” cats around the show. With a learning objective built in, and a prize waiting at the end, it added a genuinely thoughtful family friendly layer to the event. Parents praised the show’s ability to both entertain and educate, and it made the space feel inclusive and welcoming for visitors of all ages. As a pet marketing agency, we’re always watching for moments like this where community and brand opportunity intersect. The Felinology event made one thing clear: local cat shows are an untapped platform for brand engagement. Why Cat Shows Deserve a Second Look For many pet brands, especially those focused on cats, the marketing spotlight often shines on digital campaigns, big trade expos, or national pet events. But local shows offer something unique: a direct, face-to-face connection with an engaged, passionate, and often niche audience. These events attract: Cat owners who are already investing in their pets Families looking for pet focused experiences Pet professionals and breeders with insight and influence Crucially, they offer space to create meaningful, in person brand interactions. Whether it’s through trade stands, sponsorship of educational features like the Catbassador Trail, or product sampling, local shows allow brands to be part of the experience, not just the advertising. The Rise of Community Led Pet Events The Felinology show reflects a wider shift we’ve seen building momentum in the pet world: the rise of community led, educational, and family focused pet events. These aren’t just places to sell products. They’re places to build brand awareness, test new ideas, and have direct conversations with your audience. For brands looking to establish trust, visibility, and relevance in the cat owner space, shows like Felinology offer a valuable and underutilised channel. Looking Ahead We were proud to support Felinology’s show and to see how thoughtful event programming can draw in families, spark conversations, and create lasting impressions. For pet brands, especially those looking to connect more authentically with the cat loving community, local cat shows could become a powerful part of a broader marketing strategy. We’ll be keeping an eye on this space and supporting the shows that are getting it right. If your brand is ready to explore these kinds of grassroots opportunities, we’re here to help you make the most of them. Interested in working with a local cat show? Contact us: hello@socialpack.co.uk
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The Power of Breed Specific Marketing: Why It Works for Pet Brands 🐶🎯
Not all pet owners are the same and neither are their pets. Different breeds have unique needs, personalities and challenges, making breed specific marketing a powerful tool for pet brands. By tailoring your messaging, products and campaigns to specific breeds, you can build stronger connections, boost engagement and drive more sales. Pet parents naturally seek out products that cater to their dog’s specific requirements. Whether it’s food for sensitive stomachs, harnesses designed for unique body shapes or grooming solutions for high maintenance coats, breed focused marketing shows that your brand truly understands their pet’s needs. When owners see a product that speaks directly to them, they’re more likely to engage, trust the brand and make a purchase. Why Breed Specific Marketing Makes Sense for Pet Brands Generic pet marketing works, but personalised messaging resonates even more. Owners of breeds with particular health concerns, grooming requirements or behavioural traits are always on the lookout for solutions tailored to their pet. Marketing that directly addresses these needs not only increases engagement but also builds long term brand loyalty. A Labrador owner concerned about joint health or a Husky owner dealing with seasonal shedding will be far more receptive to messaging that directly relates to their breed’s challenges. How to Use Breed Specific Marketing Effectively A strong approach to breed specific marketing starts with understanding what matters most to pet owners. Customising product messaging is a great place to begin. Instead of promoting a one-size-fits-all solution, highlight why a product is ideal for a particular breed. A joint supplement, for example, can be marketed as essential for larger breeds prone to hip issues, while a specially designed harness could be promoted as the perfect fit for a French Bulldog’s unique frame. Social media plays a big role in breed specific engagement. Pet influencers and breed specific communities are incredibly active and partnering with the right influencers can introduce your brand to highly targeted audiences. A shampoo brand collaborating with a Cocker Spaniel influencer to showcase the best detangling formulas for long, wavy coats would naturally attract owners of similar breeds looking for the right grooming solutions. Email marketing and targeted advertising can take this even further. If your brand collects breed data at checkout or sign up, segmenting your email list allows you to send personalised product recommendations to specific breed owners. Similarly, running Facebook and Google ads tailored to breed related interests ensures your message reaches the right audience, increasing conversions and return on ad spend. The Competitive Edge of Breed Specific Branding Focusing on breed specific messaging gives your brand a competitive advantage. Pet owners are more likely to trust a company that understands their dog’s specific needs, and once they find a product that works for their breed, they’re likely to stay loyal. In a crowded pet market, standing out is crucial, and offering personalised solutions rather than generic products helps establish your brand as a go-to resource for responsible pet owners. For brands looking to take things even further, product development can be influenced by breed specific insights. Designing ultra durable toys for power chewers like Staffies or creating nutritional supplements for small breeds with high energy needs strengthens customer trust and positions your brand as a problem solver. Make Your Marketing More Personal Breed specific marketing isn’t just a passing trend it’s an opportunity to create meaningful connections with pet owners who are actively looking for tailored solutions. By refining your messaging, working with influencers and optimising your campaigns for breed relevance, your brand can engage pet parents in a way that feels personal, valuable, and ultimately, more effective. If you’re ready to explore how breed-specific marketing can grow your pet brand, let’s chat! 🚀🐾 hello@socialpack.co.uk
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How Pet Brands Can Run a Winning Staycation Campaign
More pet owners than ever are opting for staycations instead of travelling abroad, and they’re looking for pet friendly experiences. This trend presents a fantastic opportunity for pet brands to create campaigns that resonate with pet parents. Here’s how to make the most of the staycation boom! Why Staycations Are a Marketing Opportunity for Pet Brands Staycations are on the rise, and pet owners are actively searching for ways to make their trips more pet friendly. ✅ More People are Staying Local – Fewer people are travelling abroad, increasing domestic travel. ✅ Pet Friendly Destinations are Booming – Hotels, cottages, and cafes are catering to pet owners. ✅ Higher Spending on Pet Travel Accessories & Services – From pet carriers to grooming and travel friendly treats. 📌 Example: A pet supplement brand launches a “Travel Pack” designed to support dogs on staycations with calming chews and energy boosters. How to Build a Successful Staycation Marketing Campaign To tap into the staycation trend, focus on positioning your product or service as essential for pet friendly getaways. 📍 Create Staycation Themed Content Show pet parents how your brand fits into their local holiday plans. ✅ Share travel tips for pet owners on your blog or social media. ✅ Create checklists of essential travel products. ✅ Feature real customers using your products on their staycation. 📌 Example: A pet bed company showcases how their portable travel bed keeps dogs comfortable on a UK road trip. Collaborate with Pet Friendly Travel Brands Partnering with hotels, rental properties, or pet-friendly attractions can expand your reach. ✅ Offer discount codes for pet friendly accommodations. ✅ Run a social media giveaway with a staycation provider. ✅ Feature guest blog posts from travel experts on pet friendly destinations. 📌 Example: A dog food brand teams up with a pet friendly hotel to offer a free meal sample for every dog friendly booking. Leverage UGC & Influencers Encourage customers and influencers to share their pet friendly staycation experiences using your products. ✅ Create a branded hashtag for customers to use. ✅ Send PR packages to influencers planning staycations. ✅ Feature user generated travel content on your website and social media. 📌 Example: A pet grooming brand asks customers to share before and after travel grooming photos for a chance to win a free product bundle. Running Promotions & Campaigns for Staycationers Exclusive offers and promotions can help drive engagement and sales during peak staycation seasons. ✅ Limited Time Bundles: Create special staycation themed product packs. ✅ Giveaways & Competitions: Offer pet owners a chance to win a travel friendly product. ✅ Loyalty Perks: Reward returning customers with discounts on their next travel purchase. 📌 Example: A dog treat brand releases a Staycation Snack Pack with travel friendly portions and an exclusive limited edition flavour. Final Thoughts: Make Staycations Work for Your Brand 🌍🐾 With more pet owners opting for local getaways, now is the time to position your brand as an essential part of their travel plans. Whether through social media, partnerships, or exclusive promotions, staycation marketing can help you reach a highly engaged audience and boost sales. 🐶 Want to create a winning staycation campaign for your pet brand? Let’s chat! hello@socialpack.co.uk
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For All Dogkind at Crufts 2025: A Game Changer for Pet Grooming 🐾✨
Crufts 2025 was an exciting event for pet lovers, and this year, For All Dogkind made waves with their innovative grooming solutions. Known for their natural, cruelty free shampoos and grooming products, For All Dogkind has built a reputation for high quality care designed to keep dogs looking and feeling their best. At Crufts, they not only showcased their signature range but also introduced something new their very first cat shampoo under the label For All Catkind! 🐶🐱 Why For All Dogkind Stood Out in Pet Grooming ✨ For All Dogkind has always focused on gentle, natural, and effective grooming solutions. Their shampoos and conditioners are free from parabens, sulphates, and harsh chemicals, making them ideal for dogs with sensitive skin. Using botanical extracts and essential oils, their range is designed to cleanse, nourish, and protect, leaving coats healthy and shiny. With a commitment to eco friendly packaging and cruelty free formulations, For All Dogkind has become a go to brand for pet owners looking for high quality grooming solutions that align with their values. At Crufts 2025, visitors had the chance to see firsthand what makes this brand so special. ✔️ Natural, cruelty free, and vegan friendly✔️ Free from parabens, sulphates, and harsh chemicals✔️ Tailored for different coat types and skin sensitivities✔️ Infused with botanical extracts for optimal coat health Crufts 2025: Highlights from For All Dogkind 🏆 Crufts isn’t just about the competition it’s a major platform for pet brands to showcase their latest innovations. For All Dogkind exhibited at their stand, giving attendees the chance to explore their range, experience live demonstrations, and take home exclusive Crufts offers. At their stand, visitors enjoyed: 🐾 Exclusive event discounts on best selling products. 🐾 One on one expert advice to help dog owners find the right grooming products for their pup’s coat type. 🐾 Sneak peeks at upcoming product launches! But the biggest surprise? The official unveiling of their brand new cat shampoo under the label For All Catkind! 🐱✨ For All Catkind: A New Era of Feline Grooming 🐾🐱 While For All Dogkind has long been a favourite among dog owners, cat lovers now have something to celebrate too! Their new For All Catkind range has been specially formulated to meet the unique grooming needs of felines, offering the same natural, cruelty free approach that dog owners already love. 🐱 What Made For All Catkind Special? ✔️ Ultra gentle, pH-balanced formula designed for cats’ sensitive skin✔️ Infused with soothing botanical extracts for a soft, shiny coat✔️ Free from harsh chemicals, making it safe for even the most finicky felines This launch marked an exciting expansion for the brand, ensuring that both dogs and cats get the premium, all natural grooming they deserve. Attendees at Crufts 2025 were among the first to see this new feline friendly product in action! Why This Mattered for Pet Owners & Grooming Professionals For pet owners, choosing the right grooming products is essential for coat health, skin care, and overall well being. With an increasing demand for natural and pet friendly grooming, For All Dogkind and For All Catkind provide safe, effective solutions that pet parents can trust. For groomers, this expansion into cat care opened new doors. With more clients looking for specialised, high quality grooming solutions, having a trusted, natural brand on hand made all the difference. Those who attended Crufts 2025 had the opportunity to explore For All Dogkind’s award winning dog grooming products and be among the first to experience For All Catkind! 🐶🐱 Final Thoughts: A Standout Moment in Pet Grooming 🌿🐾 With their continued commitment to natural ingredients, sustainability, and cruelty-free pet care, For All Dogkind set new standards in pet grooming at Crufts 2025. And with the launch of For All Catkind, they proved that every pet whether dog or cat deserves the best in gentle, effective, and ethical grooming solutions. 📍 Missed Crufts 2025? Stay tuned for more exciting innovations from For All Dogkind and For All Catkind. Your pets will thank you! 🐶🐱✨
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