Pet Supplies Plus Reports Strong Mid-Year Development Numbers

Pet Supplies Plus, the largest independent pet retailer in North America, accepted 12 new franchise agreements and one independent pet conversion in the first half of 2020.

The signed agreements will result in 20 new locations for America’s favorite neighborhood pet store, including the brand’s first venture into the state of Washington. Other state developments agreed to this year include Texas, Massachusetts, California and Illinois.

“When you join the Pet Supplies Plus family, you’re entering a recession-resistant industry that’s been growing for decades. You’re also joining a fantastic leadership team dedicated to helping its owners succeed – whether it be in merchandising, marketing, eCommerce, supply chain, promotions, pricing, managing social media and more,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “We’ll be celebrating our 500-store opening this year, which speaks to the strength of our growing brand and the high rewards that franchising with us offers.”

Part of Pet Supplies Plus’ development success can be attributed to its robust online ordering platform, which has been on full display since COVID-19 hit.

While Pet Supplies Plus locations, deemed essential businesses, remained opened during the pandemic, many owners transitioned focus to the online ordering, free curbside pickup in which customers only had to open their trunk and offering same day delivery as well. With a system capable of handling the influx of online traffic, the franchise’s ecommerce growth skyrocketed – jumping 2,275 percent from January 2020 to April 2020.

As consumers increasingly opt for an online ordering experience, Pet Supplies Plus demonstrated the strength and capabilities of its omni-channel shopping experience to neighbors, an endearing term used to refer to its customers. This service allows neighbors to shop with Pet Supplies Plus how and when they want.

Pet Supplies Plus is also well known for its high touch, interactive in-store shopping experience, which did not waver when the pandemic hit. The franchise diligently followed CDC guidelines and quickly implemented appropriate safety measures. All of which allowed Pet Supplies Plus to remain a one-stop-shop for all pet grocery needs, products, toys and services.

“We experienced it during the recession, and we’ve seen it through the first half of this year: the needs and desires of pet parents to provide for their pets remains steadfast,” Rowland said. “Pets are family members, and while neighbors stocked up on essentials during this pandemic, they also visited our stores for an escape. We’re a quick trip for treats, toys and free resources to keep neighbors’ dogs, cats and small pets feeling loved.”