Mark Kalaygian, Pet Business’ publishing director and editor in chief, shares his perspective and concerns with Walmart’s announcement to open its first Pet Services center in Dallas, Georgia <Link>.
As pet owners trade down in the brands they feed their pets, retailers like Walmart will inevitably see more opportunity to steal those customers away from independent pet stores . . . especially if those customers are attracted to the ease of getting their vet care and grooming services in the same place they pick up their pet’s food.
Source: Pet Business, October 2023. Link. Customers in Dallas, GA, can now access routine veterinary care for dogs and cats (vaccines, wellness exams and minor medical services) and grooming services for dogs (baths, nail trims, teeth cleaning, ear cleaning and basic hair trims) in a one-stop destination: see bottom of page 13 <Link>.
INSIGHTS: For independent veterinary clinics and pet retailers who can differentiate their services and competencies, competition for employees may be the biggest initial challenge if Walmart expands these in stores across the country.