Market Focus Chicago
C
hicago is home to a vibrant pet community. The city is the birthplace of large chains, such as Kriser's and Bentley's Pet Stuff, as well as a thriving independent community. Currently at 60 single store independent pet specialty locations, the total Chicago store count has grown by 15 in the past four years The growth of the pet industry has continued year after year, and many pet retailers have noticed the increasing number of retailers joining the marketplace. AdreAnne Tesene with Two Bostons spoke about the current growth status of the marketplace and how it has created a healthy, competitive market. “There are a ton of pet retailers in the Chicago area. One might think this is a negative thing, but it certainly pushes all of us to be playing at the top of our game,” she said.
IPP
Founded by Jeff David, Mike Foss and Ted Root, Independent Pet Partners (IPP) is the parent company of four store brands located across the US. Created to help independent pet retail brands further succeed in the pet industry, IPP uses its expertise to promote its PG 10 / PET I N S I G H T
acquired pet stores while keeping the components that made them flourish and succeed in the beginning intact. Loyal Companion, Kriser’s, Natural Pawz and Chuck and Don’s are the four stores under IPP, but each operate independently and in their own unique way. There are currently 15 Kriser’s Natural Pet stores in the Chicago marketplace. The company has more than 1,400 employees and several in-store service options available to pet parents. Select locations have grooming, daycare, training and veterinary services. Kriser’s curates high-quality products and supplies, and its staff is well-educated and readily available to give pet parents advice.
Pet Supplies Plus
Pet Supplies Plus was founded in 1988, and now has 24 locations in Chicago. There are approximately 580 stores throughout the US. The company has remained focused on expanding and growing the company and looking for franchise opportunities. “Chicago is a fantastic market for what Pet Supplies Plus offers and we’ve been able to grow our brand presence throughout the area,” said a Pet Sup-
plies representative. “While we’ve already established a strong footprint in much of the Chicago area, there is still availability to grow in specific neighborhoods. Pet Supplies Plus is proof that local retail works when it is powered by a passion-driven franchise owner, backed by a large organization with corporate locations and the ability to provide top-of-the-line processes and services for all. We’re excited about the continued strengths of the pet retail industry and are on track to sign 100 new store agreements by year end throughout the US.” “We’ve seen this across the board among millennials and the new age pet owner: they are putting off having kids and want to experience life with their pet as their sidekick,” the representative continued. “From attending parties together, brunching, running races or walking the farmers markets, it’s not unusual to walk anywhere throughout Chicago and not see people paired up with their pet. Pet parents in Chicago want more for their pets, better health products, ingredients and high-end grooming options. Wellness habits and r Cont'd on Pg. 12
