Pet Superstore Chain Benefits From Positive Pet Care Trends In U.K.

The U.K. pet care market continues strong, reaching $7 billion in sales in 2014, driven by rising sales of premium dog and cat food. A top performer in the market is pet superstore Pets at Home, a 400-outlet chain with a base of loyal customers, many of whom belong to its 3.2 million-member VIP club. It offers one of the widest arrays of premium pet food brands in its stores, and has benefited from an aggressive online growth strategy. In the last quarter of 2014 its online product portfolio grew from 10,800 to 11,600 SKUs. Another source of financial strength is its strategy of integrating veterinary clinics and grooming facilities into its stores – currently a $96 million business.