Discussing a market within the market, Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, shares pet food growth in small, independent neighborhood pet shops. Pet food brands that have focused on this segment have seen sales grow 75 percent over the past five years, compared to a 1.7 percent decline for brands not focused on that channel. Of course, this means steady sales of those products for the independent pet shops stocking them on their shelves.
Source: Pet Food Industry, March 18, 2018.
Focused, smaller premium and natural pet food brands have always enjoyed a symbiotic relationship with NHP stores. With the type of sales growth such brands are enjoying, this area seems ripe for further pet food development and expansion.
INSIGHTS: The key to this information for animal health pros is the classification of “neighborhood” and “independent.” Like veterinary hospitals, these businesses are looking for ways to keep their customers and to make their offerings convenient. There is potential synergy between these pet shops and veterinary hospitals that is worth exploring. Consider the possibilities! Work to cross-populate customers and services.