New role, new chapter as Matthew Batts becomes Head of Technology at Pet Drugs Online

Pet Drugs Online, a UK-based supplier of veterinary medicine and pet products, has appointed Matthew Batts as Head of Technology.

He joins from Nisbets where he served as Global Head of Technology.

In a LinkedIn post, Batts said: “New role, new chapter. After a Christmas break, I’ve started at Pet Drugs Online as Head of Technology.”

“I’m excited to join a business with a clear purpose and big ambitions. Looking forward to getting stuck in, listening first, and building on what’s already working well. Strengthening those foundations to help enable growth and great customer outcomes for both pets and their owners.”

He added: “Every role shapes you in different ways, and I’m grateful for what I’m taking with me into this next chapter. Thanks to everyone who’s reached out with kind messages over the break. Onwards.”

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

Online retail will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards will open for entries in April. They celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Thursday, 15th October.

Check out our 2025 winners here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”

“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”

He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”

Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.