Can independents survive the changing landscape of the pet industry?
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What a week it has been for the pet industry! First a North-East pet shop calls for action to safeguard the future of independent stores. Then the biggest pet chain Pets at Home changes its CEO as it continues its path towards opening more outlets. And to cap it all Pets Corner increases its portfolio by 51 stores after buying PamPurredPets. It all begs the question: is the landscape of pet retailing changing?
Last week Pet Trade Xtra reported that Caroline O’Neill, who runs pet supplier Mannings of Alnwick, is concerned about the potential effects of the increasing number of chain stores that are aiming to set up shop in the market town.
She says that independent traders can win by offering the personal touch but they still needed help from the authorities to protect local heritage and to support small businesses.
“We know our customers, the names of their pets and we’re happy to carry their bags out to the car. It’s all about old-fashioned personal service, which only independent businesses can supply.
“People come for more than just pet supplies, they come for a friendly chat and maybe a little advice.
“I’d like to ask and encourage our customers, who enjoy our shop and customer service, to write to the council and put their objections to these huge shops coming into the town. We need to protect our heritage and support our local businesses.”
Caroline spoke out in light of Pets At Home building a store on a site across the road from her shop.
Her feelings are shared by hundreds of independent retailers throughout the UK, who have seen an astonishing number of pet superstores being built over the past few years.
There seems to be no let up in the building of new pet shops either with the two biggest retailers Pets at Home and Pets Corner both announcing plans to introduce more stores in the coming year.
Independents can set themselves apart by providing an exceptional and personal services as mentioned by Caroline O’Neill but they do need help and support from local councils as well as the pet industry.
So is the landscape of pet retailing changing? If you have a view on this subject then please post your comments.
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