Keren Delamere, of Bella's Pet & Garden Supplies, said: "Anything that stops the rampant growth in out-of-town pet superstores and online shops is fine by me, and the fact Crown is only available to the smaller stores has got to be a good thing.
"I have been fully supported by Crown's sales and accounts departments throughout the transition, which was difficult at times.
"There may be some behind-the-scenes ramifications that I am unaware of - I am a pet shop owner not a politician – but I am very happy with the all round situation."
And PamPurredPets MD Steve Fowler said: "I pleased to say that the super premium brands of Royal Canin and James Wellbeloved continue to grow significantly within our 45 stores."
C&M Pet Supplies, of Preston, has continued to stock Crown products and has seen a slight increase in sales. But the shop's Martin Sumner said: "I have been disappointed that the price of goods increased from what I use to pay (decreasing my profit margin) and I have been let down twice on the next-day delivery.
"I understand there have been teething problems and these will be ironed out, but I was promised a call from the local rep and his boss in relation to the first let-down and they must have been too busy for a small shop like mine.
"To really help independent retailers who cannot stock masses then you need to do what it says in the terms and conditions and also improve your own customer service."
Hawkes Green Pet Supplies in Cannock disagreed with Andy Reed's comment that focussing on pet shops and quality, and offering great trading terms was key. "It's a bit pointless if you can't get the stock," the store told Pet Trade Xtra.
Hawkes Green was told it couldn't get a delivery on the day before Good Friday because Crown were too busy because of the Bank Holiday. "This Bank Holiday was known about publicly for several years, so we find this situation at odds with their claims."
Meanwhile, at Eclipse Farm near Lincoln, David Swan said: "A lady came in this morning and asked how much a 15kg bag of James Wellbeloved Puppy was. I am cheap bear in mind. 'Oh no, I can buy on the internet for less than that and have it delivered', she replied. Is that helping the retailer?"
