Pet Supplies

Sixty-two percent of Americans have a pet; and these pet owners spent more than $45 billion on their pets in 2009 alone, according to the American Pet Products Association. Food, supplies and over-the-counter medicine accounted for the majority of pet related purchases. The client base for a pet supply store exists in every community, so an ambitious business owner who is ready to take on the pet store competition can succeed in this industry.

Instructions

1 Find a location for your pet supply store. Consider the proximity of other pet supply stores---you don't want to share a shopping center with a competitor, but if you're a few miles away from another pet supply store, you might be able to capitalize on the other store's client base. Select heavily trafficked retail areas to increase the number of customers who visit your store.
2 Build a relationship with pet supply distributors. Companies like Royal Pet Supplies and Summit Product Distributors give pet supply stores access to a range of pet supplies from a variety of brands. For example, Royal Pet Supplies offers access to 300 vendors. Find a pet supply distributor who provides the products you want at the prices you can afford.
3 Advertise in pet-friendly parts of town. Hand out or post fliers at veterinary offices and local dog parks. Include your pet supply store information and any discounts you plan to offer. Let neighbors, friends and family members know about your new store; and encourage them to spread the word.
4 Offer products that your competitors do not. If there's a need for specific pet supplies in your market, then offer them. You can offer home-baked dog treats---many pet supply stores only offer prepackaged treats. Provide all-natural foods or higher-end dog and cat foods to appeal to the health-conscious pet owner who only wants the best for her furry friend.
5 Host a grand opening sale. The best way to retain customers is to get them in your store. On your opening weekend, invite the community and their pets. Offer special discounts---perhaps something like 20 percent off your purchase. If your pet supply store offers a range of products at reasonable prices, you can build a customer base during your opening weekend.

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