Pet Store Franchises in the UK - What is There?

The Editorial Team , writer

Published at 29/01/2019, Updated on 04/05/2022 , Reading time: 5 min

Pet Store Franchises in the UK - What is There? — Photo © online-pet-franchise.jpg

We’re a nation of animal lovers. From dogs to iguanas, we adore creatures big and small, and thousands of households across the UK aren’t complete without their own miniature friend.

Recent findings show that 49% of adults own a pet. With steady numbers of pet owners through the decades, the industry is enjoying continued success, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing any time soon. As such a thriving industry, there is a huge opportunity for budding business owners.

In fact, the PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals) estimates that the average pet costs between £70 and £105 to look after each month and between £6,500 and £17,000 a on a lifetime. These costs are the minimum, suggesting that pet care bills can reach dizzy heights.

One reason for high costs is to cater to expensive, fashionable dogs. There has been a rise in recent years in pet owners choosing trendy dogs, such as chihuahuas, pugs, dachshunds, French bulldogs and designer cross-breeds such as puggles and labradoodles. In the last decade, the number of designer dogs in the UK has increased eightfold. Carrying price tags over the £1,000 mark, these dogs are likely to receive the royal treatment as their owners want to look after their investment.

Pet stores across the country are enjoying a slice of this market. Whether it’s providing food, toys, toilet training products or beds, they are making a sizeable profit from the needs of our pets. It is little wonder that pet franchises are one of the most searched for opportunities each month.

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What does it take to own a pet?

Anyone who looks after their pet (and does it well) will know that it isn’t a light undertaking. Pets need lots of care, from training it and cleaning up after it to giving it nutritional meals and plenty of exercise. When you’re busy with a fully-time job, pet care can feel like a hassle, which is why lots of companies are stepping in to fill the gap.

Across Britain, walkers, groomers and shops for food, toys, beds and more, are taking the weight off pet owners’ shoulders. It is helping pets enjoy a healthier and happier life, while their owners can relax knowing much of their care is taken care of.

What kinds of pet care business are there?

Pet care widely varies. You’ll find sole traders and large traders alike offering walking and pet sitting services, helping to prevent these animals being left alone for long periods throughout the day. Catteries and kennels will look after pets when their owners go away. Some companies provide food subscriptions, delivering their products quickly and efficiently, exactly when it is needed. There are also groomers where pets can get their necessary hair and claw trims, which can be arranged at the owners’ homes or at a store’s location. For people wanting to buy a pet, breeders and stores sell youngsters to take home.

Pet care store

For people wanting a one-stop-shop for all their pet’s needs, a pet care store is the answer. They typically sell everything from food and bedding to grooming tools and health treatments. Most stores cater for all sorts of animals, such as cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, fish and reptiles. There is also help on hand, which is why people thinking of setting one up should get clued up on their products and the kinds of questions their customers will ask.

Why pet stores are lucrative businesses

The humanisation of animals is one of the main reasons why the industry is enjoying long-term success. More and more people are treating their pets as part of the family, which means they are unwilling to compromise on the levels of care these loves ones receive. This growing trend has a number of benefits for pet stores. Firstly, lots of owners are willing to pay more for high-quality products, such as natural or organic food, comfortable beds and fashionable garments. This gives pet care companies the opportunity to widen their margins. Secondly, the industry has proven itself to be resistant to economic troubles. Even during recession, many pet owners will continue to pay for the best their pet can get – and failing that, they will at least continue to feed and groom their pet.

Online pet store

Like many businesses, pet care is increasingly being sorted out online. Offering quick delivery and savings from buying in bulk, online pet stores are taking lots of business from traditional high street stores. There are also a larger number of specialised products online, such as food to meet some pets’ dietary requirements.

While it is clear that this move is affecting the industry, it doesn’t mean there are fewer opportunities for people wanting to set up their own businesses. There is no reason why a high street retailer can’t offer online services. It is also fair to suggest that new businesses could take an all-online approach, as long as they offer something new or better.

Franchising opportunities

For those looking to set up a pet store without the hassle of finding a gap in the market, the opportunity to set up a franchise is a lucrative one. There are a number of prospects at Point Franchise, including pet food and accessory delivery companies to pet boarding and walking services. For example, Husse is a home delivery franchise, selling healthy and premium quality dog and cat food, litter and accessories. Barking Mad, on the other hand, is a dog sitting firm that offers an alternative to kennels. There is also Dial a Dog Wash, which provides quick and easy dog grooming.

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These are just a few examples of the kinds of opportunities out there. If you love animals and want to run a business from your own home, a pet care franchise could be the answer. The UK population doesn’t seem to want to give up on its pets yet, so you could enjoy long-term success in this marketplace.