Astar Pets builds on the vibrant online market
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The pet industry is becoming more attractive to major investors who view it as a lifestyle marketplace. And online businesses like Astar Pets, launched in March, are seeing big opportunities to grow quickly.
Astar Pets claims to offer a utopia for pet owners, selling everything from essentials to luxury products for pampered and well-travelled pets.
It all started with Will Cooper, who had previously founded members-only lifestyle website, Achica. He realised during a family trip to the park, that people were increasingly treating their pets as part of the family.
On further investigation he dsicovered but there wasn't a place or business that brought all pet services together.
After talking to another entrepreneur Quentin Griffiths, who had co-founded of ASOS, the online fashion and beauty store, they decided to capitalise on the growing pet market
 They soon recruited Chris Webster and Zoe St. John to start building the Astar Pets team from late 2013, and the site was officially launched on March 28. It has continued to expand its offering on a weekly basis since then.
Chris Webster joined as CEO from eBay where he had spent two years as Director of International Commerce. He had previously launched the John Lewis Partnership card and insurance businesses.
“We are passionate about creating the ideal destination for pet lovers to find everything they need for their treasured pet," says Chris.
"From our vibrant online marketplace to buy everyday essentials and inspirational treats through to our services and online magazine to find information, we invite everyone to join our community, share our passion for our treasured pets and find some amazing inspirational products sourced from around the world."
Zoe St. John is 34-years-old, was born in Barbados and now lives in Blackheath. Zoe joined the founders as Head of Buying for AstarPets.com in late 2013, following a successful eight years as a Corporate Buyer at TJX Europe (TK Maxx).
In just three months, Zoe liaised with and signed up over 2,800 products for the launch. One month down the line, this number had grown to just shy of 5,000 (from over 60 sellers).
For more information visit www.astarpets.com
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