Press release – Vet Press
July 2023
The streets of Manchester came alive with the vibrant presence of XLVets members as they engaged in friendly competition during the annual AGM team challenge last month. This exciting event, inspired by the idea that the future is already here, it’s just not evenly distributed, saw teams getting creative and earning points by completing a series of challenges from constructing futuristic vet practices to commissioning drone deliveries. Community and collaboration were integral to the two-day AGM where delegates received informative presentations and ample opportunity to discuss current trends with one another.
"It’s the human blend of collaboration and healthy competition within the community of XLVets that gives us our shared energy," emphasised Andrew Curwen, CEO of XLVets. "The annual AGM provides a unique opportunity for our members to come together, fostering friendships, discussing business strategies, and exchanging ideas. The team challenge has always been an integral component of our AGMs, and this year, our members and supplier partners surpassed all expectations with their enthusiasm and participation."
Divided into groups of six, the teams undertook over 20 different tasks, vying for points throughout the afternoon. The top two teams advanced to the thrilling final round held during the evening dinner. Focusing on independent values and sustainability, with an eye towards the future, the challenges involved interviewing independent businesses, exploring new technologies, utilising eco-friendly transportation, and promoting diversity. All submissions were made digitally through the innovative Goosechase app.
The event, held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, enjoyed robust attendance with 140 attendees, with 46 member practices represented. Thanks to the close-knit community ethos, the AGM exuded an intimate yet welcoming atmosphere. Pharmaceutical company representatives, practice managers, and owners actively participated in the team challenge, while joining delegates for an enjoyable evening dinner.
Andrew expressed his gratitude, saying, "We extend a special thank you to our sponsors, whose generous support and innovative products and services continue to support XLVets."
The annual event is a celebration of independent practices and featured numerous valuable sessions aimed at supporting the growth and success of individual practices. In addition to the formal AGM, the agenda covered topics such as "Rebellious Ideas and Teamwork," "On-Farm Tech Data," "The Now of Technology in Small Animal and Equine Practice," as well as in-depth discussions on flexible working and supporting succession in practice.
XLVets' commitment to fostering a collaborative community and driving the future of independent practice was evident throughout the AGM and the thrilling team challenge. The event served as a platform for members to connect, exchange knowledge, and embrace the shared vision of excellence in veterinary care.
To learn more about XLVets, visit https://www.xlvets.co.uk/the-boss/
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Press Contact: Fiona Farmer, Companion Consultancy, Tel 07925 133304, Email fiona@companionconsultancy.com
About XLVets
XLVets is a community of independent practices, enabling members to collaborate with shared knowledge, experience and skills.
Practice ownership and therefore all decision-making is veterinary led, in the hands of those who work within their practice, and remains with veterinary professionals who are committed to achieving and maintaining excellence.
Members benefit from group synergies as a result of improved access to resources, processes and economy of scale, that would otherwise be beyond their reach, ensuring they remain highly competitive.
The support of their peers and colleagues means members can freely express their individuality but are not alone. XLVets is proud to celebrate leadership, creativity and technical know-how demonstrated by the best-in-class professionals at every level within its community.
With a focus on building cooperative relationships and networks, XLVets recognises the strong tradition and heritage of veterinary practice and welcomes opportunities to put control of the future into the hands of veterinary surgeons and their teams.
Founded in 2005, XLVets began as a collection of dynamic farm animal practices that saw benefits to working together to support each other, while retaining their own individuality. As a champion of independent veterinary practice XLVets has grown rapidly, with equine and companion animal practice now also strongly represented. The appeal of the business model has extended internationally and there are XLVet communities in the UK, Ireland, New Zealand and Canada.
Find out more at https://www.xlvets.co.uk/ and https://www.xlvets.co.uk/the-boss/