In what is described as a “community-driven test concept”, Petco announced the launch of their new pet care centres, designed to serve the health and wellness needs of pets and farm animals in small towns and rural communities. The opening of the first location happened in Floresville, Texas, on June 17.
The pet care centres – officially titled Petco’s Neighbourhood Farm & Pet Supply pet care centres – are new, stand-alone retail locations strategically situated at the heart of small-town and rural communities. As well as providing support for pets by offering high-quality products and pet care services, the centres will also serve as “one-stop shops” for health and wellness solutions for pets and farm animals including horses, cows, pigs, sheep and goats.
Besides offering support, the company views the strategically chosen situations as an opportunity to make an estimated US$7 billion in small town and rural locations. 14 percent of the US population currently live in rural areas – and growing.
Citing the Economic Innovation Group and federal statistics, two thirds of urban counties experienced a population decline in 2021 and for the first time in 50 years, more than 250,000 people experienced negative growth. Conversely, exurban counties saw the biggest increase in population growth, with 80 percent gaining new residents.
With the launch, Petco hopes to bring its range of products and services more quickly and at a lower cost than other players. It offerings include high-quality nutrition, farm and feed assortment, live companion animals, mobile vaccination and grooming services, and more.
Tailoring to a variety of pets and farm animals, the pet care centres will serve as places for community gatherings and connections. Each location will be offering local events and in-store community board to facilitate safe interaction among neighbours. In partnership with its charity, Petco Love, the locations will also offer adoption services.
“These are rapidly-growing markets where pet parents are looking for an experienced, pet-dedicated partner like Petco to help them care for the health and wellness of their animals,” says Ron Coughlin, Petco CEO. “This is an exciting opportunity for us to serve more pets by dramatically expanding local access to healthy pet products and services.”
For more information on Petco visit their website, HERE.
