The Backstory of ZAF
The Zala & Friends Story 🐾
Where It All Began
Zala & Friends was born during the first lockdown in August 2020, when founder Nicole had the idea of creating something inspired by her much loved yellow Labrador, Zala.
At the time, Nicole was studying a Bachelor of Laws with every intention of becoming a lawyer. But just four months after the idea was born, Zala & Friends officially began operating in December 2020 and what started as an unexpected change of direction quickly grew into something much bigger.
Zala became the heart and inspiration behind the brand and, of course, its name.
Nicole poured an incredible amount of thought and love into Zala & Friends, creating a brand centering around beautiful and practical products for dogs and the people who love them.
Over the years, Zala & Friends grew from a lockdown idea into an established Australian pet brand, supported by an amazing community of dog lovers across the country.
A New Chapter - 2026 & Beyond
In 2026, the time came for Zala & Friends to begin its next chapter, with the business finding a new home in Port Pirie, South Australia.
Hi! I’m Sarah, the new owner of Zala & Friends. 👋
Dogs aren't just something I love, they're a huge part of my everyday life. As a professional dog groomer and registered dog breeder, I've spent years working hands-on with dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities.
So when the opportunity came along to take over Zala & Friends, it felt like an incredibly exciting fit.
I knew I didn't want to erase the history behind the business or completely reinvent a brand that already had such a wonderful following. Zala & Friends already had its own story, personality and community. I want that story to continue.
My goal is to build upon what Nicole originally created while bringing some of my own ideas, experience and personality into the brand.
What's Next? 💕
Zala & Friends is now proudly South Australian owned and operated, with plenty planned for the future.
Along with continuing to offer the products Zala & Friends customers already know and love, I hope to be introducing new products and designs and taking Zala & Friends out into the community at dog shows, markets and events.
You may even meet some of my own four-legged crew along the way! 🐶
Whether you've been following Zala & Friends since the early days with Nicole and Zala, or you've only just discovered us, thank you for being here.
I'm incredibly excited to continue the story that began back in 2020 and see where this next chapter takes us.
Lots of love & puppy smooches,
Sarah & the Zala and Friends crew x 🐾