As an increasing number of consumers buy products on line, retail outlets like pet shops need to be clever about how they grow their business. One way is to become the centre of the local pet-owning community, according to Pooch & Mutt director Guy Blaskey...

Guy will share his views on how pet stores can thrive in the internet age at this year’s PATS Harrogate seminars, sponsored by Pedigree Wholesale, on September 15 and 16.

Here we catch up with Guy for a 60-second interview to get a taster of what’s to come during his seminar at 12.50pm on Monday, September 16.

Q. Why should people come to your seminars?

Guy says: This is the third year I have done seminars at PATS and they have consistently been some of the most popular talks there. I have a passion for marketing and am constantly learning new things. Some of what I learn is very useful for Pooch & Mutt, but a lot is more useful for other types of businesses. PATS is a great opportunity to share this information with people who will hopefully not only find it useful but will also find it profitable...and the better the stores do the more of our product they will sell.

Q. What does the future hold for the independent pet retailer?

Guy says: If an independent retailer is willing to adapt, the future is bright for them. If independents try to take on the likes of Amazon and Tesco at their own game then they will lose, but if they offer something that these organisations can't offer then they can win. My seminar is all about adding service and becoming a centre of the local pet-owning community.

Q. How can a small pet shop embrace the digital world of websites and social media?

Guy says: There are many ways. I would always suggest that shop owners start by thinking of who their customers are, what they want and what they do, then try and integrate with this. The online world is not just about being online. If an independent pet store aims to become a hub for the local pet-owning community they can use online tools to bring this community together both online and more importantly offline. A simple example is organising a big dog walk through Facebook.

Q. What advice would you give a retailer wanting to set up a website?

Guy says: Come to my talk at PATS in Harrogate. As well as my seminar there are lots of other experts to help and advise. 

Visit the Seminar Theatre at PATS Harrogate, sponsored by Pedigree Wholesale, to be inspired and motivated by fantastic speakers. Register to attend the show now at www.patshow.co.uk

PATS Harrogate takes place on Sunday, September 15, and Monday, September 16, at Harrogate International Centre.