BioPet Labs
BioPet Laboratories, often just called BioPet, was recognized as one of the fastest-growing businesses by UT alumni, earning a spot at number 21 out of 40. A lot of this success is thanks to the Knoxville Small Business Development Center whose hard work and top-notch customer service played a key role in propelling the company forward.
So, what’s the story behind BioPet? It all started with J. Retinger, founder and CEO, a businessman with a knack for creating successful companies. He once owned a company that held a patent for electric fences for cattle. After selling that company, he entered the world of colon cancer research with EDP Biotech and also began "Finding That Lab" to bring in extra money. He and his team then dived into veterinary diagnostic testing, although it wasn't as profitable as they hoped.
A turning point came when they noticed a problem: dog waste was becoming an issue in apartment complexes. This sparked an idea among a group of scientists, including an individual named Ally. They thought, why not use DNA technology to figure out which dogs were responsible for the mess? In 2010, they started a program that caught the eye of property managers since it allowed them to fine pet owners who didn't clean up after their dogs.
Here's how BioPet's program works: pet owners swab their dog's DNA and create a profile in the company's database. If waste is found, it’s sent to BioPet, and using the DNA, they identify which dog it came from, holding pet owners accountable. This simple yet smart idea has expanded, now helping not just apartment complexes, but also HOAs, condos, campgrounds, hotels, dog parks, and even entire cities manage pet waste effectively!
Operating labs that match unknown DNA samples, like a kind of CSI for dog poop, isn’t always pleasant but it’s essential to keep our living environments clean. These labs, crafted with help from the TBI and FBI, stick strictly to forensic protocols and handle thousands of samples daily, using special chemicals and methods to extract the DNA.
On a global scale, BioPet has spread its wings, operating in seven countries. Sometimes, to protect their special processes and methods, components for testing are sent blind to other countries. For instance, during negotiations in Tel Aviv, they explored opportunities to extend their reach into the Middle East and European Union, taking advantage of the strategic location and available workforce.
In a field where staying updated with technology is key, BioPet has overcome obstacles like discontinuations of machine models or parts. They’ve negotiated contracts to ensure quick replacements, ensuring their operations remain uninterrupted.
Recently and with the assistance of the Knoxville SBDC, they closed on nearby, former vitamin-water corporate office and warehouse, which they are building out for both their lab counter work and corporate office, which will expand their footprint from 8000 square feet to 21,000 square feet.
In a nutshell, BioPet beautifully blends scientific progress and business smarts, forging ahead with a dedication to a cleaner environment and operational excellence. It presents a shining example of how technology and a responsible approach to the environment can come together, crafting a story of success that reaches far and wide. With eyes on BioPet’s journey, the road ahead gleams brightly, hinting at a future where technology and environmental care meld into a sustainable pathway forward.