A recent survey of 204 UK pet parents by LOOP – Yummypets' insights platform in partnership with GA Pet Food Partners reveals that independent pet shops continue to be highly valued for their trusted advice and personalized service.
The survey found that 80% of pet shop consumers visit their local store at least twice a month, with factors like locality, product choice and tailored recommendations driving loyalty. The report noted pet parents are drawn by the knowledgeable, friendly service and expertise, along with the sense of value local shops provide
Pet food findings
In terms of pet food, 19% of UK pet parents purchase dry kibble, and health benefits and product quality are the top purchase triggers. The most popular health benefits pet parents seek are everyday health and wellbeing and skin and coat health, closely followed by dental, digestive, joint and weight health.
LOOP - Yummypets
Pet parents are willing to embrace a shift from branded to store-brand products -- 79% of shoppers are open to replacing their current kibble with their store’s private-label, and 87% said they would even pay more for it.
The report noted this growing loyalty to private-label brands signals an opportunity for independent pet shops to build stronger connections with their customers by offering trustworthy products backed up by their trusted advice.
These insights were shared during a live Q&A with Yummy Pets on the GA Academy and have informed the development of GA's next-generation pet food, Peptide+, which includes three recipes targeting key therapeutic needs.
Adapted from a press release.
