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Neighborhood Pet Retailer named a ‘Top Growth Franchise’ by Entrepreneur Magazine, Pet Service Category Predicted to be one of the ‘hottest’ industries.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Pet Supplies Plus, the largest independent pet retailer in North America, known for its high-touch local shopping experience was ranked No. 104 in Entrepreneur Magazine’s first ‘Top Growth Franchises,’ list.

Published in the September issue, the list recognized only 150 companies from Entrepreneur’s annual Franchise 500 ranking.

To determine the 2020 Top Growth Franchises ranking, Entrepreneur evaluates each franchisor’s total positive franchise growth over the past three years as well as factors that negatively affect growth, such as terminations, nonrenewals, and other closures.

This recognition follows Entrepreneur Magazine’s, updated list of The Hottest Industries Today which highlights the pet category with its consistent year-over-year growth even in this challenging year. From the start of the pandemic, Pet Supplies Plus was deemed an essential retailer, with its 500-plus stores providing a wide assortment of pet grocery needs, products, toys, and services. When Amazon and other online pet retailers were taking between 3-7 days for delivery, Pet Supplies Plus, having proactively anticipated the increased need for inventory, offered neighbors same day pick up or delivery from their conveniently located neighborhood pet stores.

“We’ve always been a recession-resistant franchise and our strength and stability during 2020 has only solidified our brand’s track record of success,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “One of the reasons pet passionate candidates are joining Pet Supplies Plus, is because of our continuous growth and innovation benefits both for our locally-owned stores and corporate locations.”

Pet Supplies Plus has already signed 36 franchise agreements this year, to account for 59 new stores.

The Pet Supplies Plus system is built to help franchisees scale quickly and successfully. For example, Brian Rolf, became a Pet Supplies Plus owner in 2016, after serving in the military for 20 years. In four short years, Rolf is now a multi-unit owner and recognized as a Franchise Business Review 2020 Franchise Rock Star.

This year’s Franchise Rock Stars were selected from over 28,000 franchisees, representing more than 300 brands that participated in Franchise Business Review’s research in the past 18 months. Rolf, like many owners in the Pet Supplies Plus system, are examples of achieving success through following the franchise model and fully committing to the community and neighbors they serve.

“Retail works when it is powered by passion-driven individuals that genuinely love what they do and who they do it for,” said Rowland. “Often times our owners can be found on the sales floor alongside their knowledgeable team members for in-store shopping as well as overseeing streamlined online ordering, curbside pickup and delivery.”

Pet Supplies Plus thrives because the owners’ top focus is connecting with their neighbors. The franchise takes ‘Minus the hassle,’ out of business ownership by providing world-class franchisee support, purchasing power, merchandising, marketing, supply chain logistics and other ‘back room’ duties. The brands community-minded owners paired with superior corporate support makes for a winning combination.

Neighborhood Pet Store Franchise Sets Goal to Sponsor at least 500 Pet Adoptions in Communities Nationwide.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Known as America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store, Pet Supplies Plus has outlined big plans to give back in 500+ communities over the next four months. Local outreach initiatives include:

• July: Pet Supplies Plus has partnered with multiple pet food brands to provide shelters, rescues and adoption organizations around the country with over 16,000 bags of cat and dog food valued at over $200,000 and more than 17,000 pet toys, valued at over $180,000.
  • The food and toys will arrive in Pet Supplies Plus stores the week of July 5-10, to be delivered to organizations near and dear to the local store’s heart in the days following. Partners involved in the initiative include Blue Buffalo, Stella & Chewy, Science Diet, Diamond, Natural Balance, Nutri Source, Whole Earth Farms, Nestle Purina, Mars Petcare, Wellpet and KONG.
• August: Pet Supplies Plus will partner will Hill’s Science Diet to help support the Clear the Shelters initiative, which is a community-driven, nationwide pet adoption campaign dedicated to placing pets with the perfect animal-loving home.
• September: The brand, along with local store owners and operators, also established a goal to sponsor at least 500 pet adoptions come September. The neighborhood retailer, celebrating a growth milestone amid the opening of its 500^th location, plans to help at least 500 pets find their forever home, by covering their adoption fees or related expenses.
• October: Pet Supplies Plus locations across the nation will host local adoption events in-store to honor National Adopt-A-Shelter Dog Month – with surprises in-store from pet partner, KONG.

Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods and a variety of Made in the USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store.

“Pets have the power to bring people together and provide comfort and joy in the homes of our neighbors and within their communities,” said Chris Rowland, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Supplies Plus. “We wanted to leverage the relationships we have with our network of generous pet partners to help support local organizations and shelters facing extra challenges right now. We’re incredibly humbled to have the platform and ability to support our neighbors and their pets through these outreach efforts. Given our neighborhood and community focus, we felt it was the most appropriate way to commemorate our growth.”

In an effort to offer more convenient shopping options for pet parents, the majority of Pet Supplies Plus stores nationwide are offering delivery services, bringing pet food and supplies directly to homes, as well as free 2-hour curbside pickup. While pet parents can still go into the stores to shop, they can also order online and drive to their nearest location, where a team member will bring the items to their vehicle.

Pet Retailer Continues Franchise Growth Amid COVID Thanks to Omnichannel Shopping Experience.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Pet Supplies Plus, the largest independent pet retailer in North America, accepted 12 new franchise agreements and one independent pet conversion in the first half of 2020.

The signed agreements will result in 20 new locations for America’s favorite neighborhood pet store, including the brand’s first venture into the state of Washington. Other state developments agreed to this year include Texas, Massachusetts, California and Illinois.

“When you join the Pet Supplies Plus family, you’re entering a recession-resistant industry that’s been growing for decades. You’re also joining a fantastic leadership team dedicated to helping its owners succeed – whether it be in merchandising, marketing, eCommerce, supply chain, promotions, pricing, managing social media and more,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “We’ll be celebrating our 500-store opening this year, which speaks to the strength of our growing brand and the high rewards that franchising with us offers.”

Part of Pet Supplies Plus’ development success can be attributed to its robust online ordering platform, which has been on full display since COVID-19 hit.

While Pet Supplies Plus locations, deemed essential businesses, remained opened during the pandemic, many owners transitioned focus to the online ordering, free curbside pickup in which customers only had to open their trunk and offering same day delivery as well. With a system capable of handling the influx of online traffic, the franchise’s ecommerce growth skyrocketed – jumping 2,275% from January 2020 to April 2020.

As consumers increasingly opt for an online ordering experience, Pet Supplies Plus demonstrated the strength and capabilities of its omni-channel shopping experience to neighbors, an endearing term used to refer to its customers. This service allows neighbors to shop with Pet Supplies Plus how and when they want.

Pet Supplies Plus is also well known for its high touch, interactive in-store shopping experience, which did not waver when the pandemic hit. The franchise diligently followed CDC guidelines and quickly implemented appropriate safety measures. All of which allowed Pet Supplies Plus to remain a one-stop-shop for all pet grocery needs, products, toys and services.

“We experienced it during the recession, and we’ve seen it through the first half of this year: the needs and desires of pet parents to provide for their pets remains steadfast,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “Pets are family members, and while neighbors stocked up on essentials during this pandemic, they also visited our stores for an escape. We’re a quick trip for treats, toys and free resources to keep neighbors’ dogs, cats and small pets feeling loved.”

Pet Supplies Plus Provides In-Home Guide, Advice for New Pet Parents.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Shelters across the United States are reporting a significant surge of applications for fostering and adopting animals during COVID-19, resulting in a high demand for supplies at local pet retailers. To ensure pet parents can get food and the necessary products for their new member of the family, more than 490 Pet Supplies Plus stores in 34 states nationwide are offering free 2-hour curbside pickup. Pet parents can simply order online and drive to their nearest location, where a team member will bring the items to their vehicle.

In addition, over 200 Pet Supplies Plus stores are offering delivery services, bringing pet food and supplies directly to homes during the pandemic and moving forward.

The curbside pickup and delivery services are necessary safety precautions during the pandemic, especially given the increase in pet fostering and adoptions. Local shelters in Chicago, Dallas, New York City, Los Angeles, Kansas City and many more are reporting fostering applications surging to as much as tenfold over what they are on a typical day. Petpoint, a software program with over 1,200 shelters in its database, reported that fostering and adoption rates are up 700 percent from last year.

“Pets can help combat loneliness and provide a great source of comfort during stressful times,” said Chris Rowland, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Supplies Plus. “That’s one reason for the increase in adoptions and fostering. Sheltering-in-place has also given people the opportunity to be at home throughout the day to devote time and attention to caring for a pet. We’re glad we are able to provide a safe way for pet parents to obtain the food and supplies they need to take care of their new family members.”

With curbside pickup in place at all Pet Supplies Plus locations, pet parents can easily pick up all the products they need while practicing safe social distancing. Because enforcing social distancing during outdoor activity can be a bit trickier, the brand created a fun infographic to help envision the distance of six feet … in animal terms: Imagine a dog, two cats, and a guinea pigs’ length between you and other fellow pet owners.

At-Home Guide
Pet Supplies Plus has also created an at-home guide for those extending their homes to new and fostered pets, hoping to make the transition simple and comforting for the pet and parent. For first-time pet parents, the list of supplies, available through delivery, curbside pickup and in store, will help round out all the items needed to create a healthy environment for your new furry friend:

• Toys: Be mindful of your pet’s strength and temperament when choosing any toy and be sure to keep a close eye on them as they play. Smart toy options include treat dispensing toys, plush toys, discs, tennis balls and puzzle toys.
• Food/supplies: Upon getting a new animal, take note of how much and often they eat. On a trip to the pet store, buy more than you think you’ll need as a precaution and until you have a consistent routine in place. Additional items like a water and food bowl, and treats with nutritional benefits are a worthwhile buy.
• First-time essentials: For walks, make sure to buy a good quality collar and leash, as well as ID tags. For comfort, order a bed, litterbox and/or crate, all important for training and bedtime. For health, consider flea and tick prevention. For grooming, get a brush, nail clippers and shampoo.
• Preventing injuries: Try to prevent injury, specifically for our senior pets, by properly tucking cables away from walking spaces and putting up barriers to block off stairs or other off-limits spaces. Similarly, if your pet is a chewer, keep any small or tempting items out of reach.

Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods and a variety of Made in the USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store.

To place an order for curbside pickup or to see whether your local Pet Supplies Plus store offers a delivery option, please visit https://www.petsuppliesplus.com/.

Neighborhood Pet Store Creates Safe Options to Ensure Pets Needs are Met During Pandemic.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Designated as an essential business during the COVID-19 outbreak, more than 490 Pet Supplies Plus stores in 34 states nationwide will remain open and are offering free 2-hour curbside pickup. In addition, several stores in 17 states are delivering pet food and supplies directly to pet parents’ homes during the pandemic and moving forward.

With curbside pickup, pet parents can simply order online and the store will gather and package their items for curbside pickup, where a team member will bring the items directly to their vehicle.

Select stores in the following states will also offer home delivery service: Connecticut, Florida, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

“Providing a safe way for pet parents to obtain quality food and necessary supplies for their pets is our highest priority,” said Chris Rowland, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Supplies Plus. “Pet parents should not feel like they have to compromise their pets’ nutrition or other needs during this pandemic. Curbside pickup, as well as delivery at as many stores as possible, are designed to provide safe options for our neighbors.”

Now with more than 490 locations in 34 states across the country, Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods, a variety of Made in the USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Many locations also feature a full offering of grooming services tailored to meet every pet’s needs, including washes, haircuts, body brushing, flea treatment and nail, skin, ear and oral care.

To place an order for curbside pickup or to see whether your local Pet Supplies Plus store offers a delivery option, please visit https://www.petsuppliesplus.com/.

NEW YORK — Today, Nielsen (NYSE: NLSN) Global Connect and Pet Supplies Plus, the largest, neighborhood pet retailer in the U.S., announced a long-term, exclusive analytic relationship. With this agreement, Nielsen Global Connect will be the exclusive analytic collaborator to access Pet Supplies Plus’s in-store, ecommerce and key account data.  Effective immediately, Nielsen Global Connect will gain measurement into over 500 Pet Supplies Plus stores, amplifying its industry-leading, total pet retail read for the U.S. market.

Since 1988, Pet Supplies Plus has grown a distinguished reputation within the pet retail space for its customer-centric shopping experience, ‘minus the hassle.’ Through Nielsen Global Connect data, Pet Supplies Plus will gain an enhanced understanding of today’s passionate pet consumer landscape to power the next decade of retail growth and franchisee success.

“Understanding our consumer is a top priority as we navigate today’s quick moving and evolving omnichannel landscape,” said Derek Panfil, Chief Merchandise and Marketing Officer at Pet Supplies Plus.  “Nielsen Global Connect is the most prominent source of data within the U.S. pet market and as we grow our presence both instore and online, we look to Nielsen’s strength in omnichannel measurement to inform our daily data-driven decisions.”

“The U.S. pet retail channel continues to thrive and winning pet retailers like Pet Supplies Plus are leaning heavily into data and analytics to stay one step ahead,” said Raha Alavi, Senior Vice President of Retail Services at Nielsen Global Connect. “As we shape a smarter market for the pet industry at large, we are proud to welcome Pet Supplies Plus to the Nielsen Global Connect measurement universe.”

In 2019, Nielsen Global Connect launched Nielsen Total U.S. Pet Retail, the industry’s first holistic view of the U.S. pet retail market. With a view into more than 10,000 pet specialty stores, Nielsen Global Connect’s pet read provides a combined and inclusive view of pet specialty, non specialty, regional chains, independent stores, military commissary, grocery and mass market stores across the U.S.

ABOUT NIELSEN
Nielsen Holdings plc (NYSE: NLSN) is a global measurement and data analytics company that provides the most complete and trusted view available of consumers and markets worldwide. Nielsen is divided into two business units. Nielsen Global Media, the arbiter of truth for media markets, provides media and advertising industries with unbiased and reliable metrics that create a shared understanding of the industry required for markets to function. Nielsen Global Connect provides consumer packaged goods manufacturers and retailers with accurate, actionable information and insights and a complete picture of the complex and changing marketplace that companies need to innovate and grow.

Our approach marries proprietary Nielsen data with other data sources to help clients around the world understand what’s happening now, what’s happening next, and how to best act on this knowledge.

An S&P 500 company, Nielsen has operations in over 100 countries, covering more than 90% of the world’s population. For more information, visit www.nielsen.com.

Local Business Owner Russell Herman to Debut First Pet Supplies Plus This Week in Rochester.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Pet Supplies Plus, known as America’s favorite neighborhood pet store, will open seven new locations throughout the Rochester and Buffalo New York area by May 2020. Local Rochester entrepreneur Russell Herman, who has operated PetSaver Healthy Pet Superstores in the area for the past 26 years, is converting six of his stores to Pet Supplies Plus and will build one new store in Webster. Herman made his decision to re-brand as Pet Supplies Plus to provide pet parents with competitive pricing, more selection and unmatched customer service training for his team.

Pet Supplies Plus offers a hassle-free way to find better products for pets, while saving pet parents money and celebrating the fun of pet ownership. The new stores will now offer amenities such as full-service grooming services, self-pet wash stations, knowledgeable pet care team members and carry-out service in which team members carry heavy items to neighbors’ cars. The new Pet Supplies Plus stores opening in the area include:

• Webster, NY – 980 Ridge Rd., Webster, NY, opened in January
• Brighton, NY – 2947 Monroe Ave., Brighton, NY, opening in February
• Baytowne, NY – 1900 Empire Blvd., Ste. 140, Webster, NY, opening in February
• Victor, NY – 48 Square Dr., Victor, NY, opening in March
• Williamsville, NY – 5397 Sheridan Dr., Williamsville, NY, opening in April
• Orchard Park, NY – 3213 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park, NY, opening in May
• Greece, NY – 1596 Ridge Rd. W., Greece, NY, opening in May

“Making the conversion to Pet Supplies Plus will allow me to help more needs of every neighbor and I’ll be able to provide more products at a better price,” said Herman. “Pet Supplies Plus provides a strong operational foundation and I’m confident the community will love the new stores and all the amenities we will offer throughout western New York, while still delivering the great services the community expects from my team members.”

Pet Supplies Plus will give pet parents a wide selection of natural pet foods, goods and pet services at low prices and focus on a unique, rich in-store experience for “neighbors” (the term Pet Supplies Plus uses for customers). The stores will also feature grooming and vet services, and knowledgeable and friendly staff. Pet parents are always welcome to shop with their dogs at the store, where knowledgeable team members are on-site to answer questions, offer tips or just get on their hands and knees to play with pets who enter the stores.

Neighbors have access to an experienced and knowledgeable team help them find everything they need. Each team member is extensively trained in the areas of natural and holistic foods and are able to answer a broad range of questions about dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and fish. Shoppers can also take advantage of the free Preferred Pet Club, which offers members regular coupons for products they purchase frequently and monthly specials, resulting in big savings.

Each Pet Supplies Plus store will be hosting a grand opening to celebrate the conversions and opening. Details can be found online at www.petsuppliesplus.com or by following each store’s Facebook page.

America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store Signs 81 Agreements in 2019

LIVONIA, Mich. — Pet Supplies Plus – the largest independent pet retailer in the United States – announced Wednesday it continues to experience tremendous growth, receiving a total of 81 signed franchise agreements in 2019 to date.

The ‘Minus the hassle’ pet retailer welcomed 32 new franchisees to its system this year, accounting for 53 of the 81 new units sold. Additionally, 11 existing Pet Supplies Plus franchisees reinvested in the business and agreed to build 27 more stores across the country.

States where agreements were signed in 2019 include Texas, New York, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota and California. In fact, the South Dakota and Nevada agreements are brand milestones as the stores will be the first Pet Supplies Plus locations in those states.

“It’s incredibly gratifying to see new franchisees and existing owners continue to invest in our brand,” said Pet Supplies Plus CEO Chris Rowland. “Coming into the year, we thought we set a lofty-but-attainable unit-growth goal for our system, and we surpassed that number by 30 stores. It’s validation that our candidates and current franchisees believe in the value we provide neighbors and their pets.”

A key driver in surpassing the franchise’s projected growth is the ongoing success of converting independent pet store retailers into independently-owned and operated Pet Supplies Plus franchise owners. America’s favorite neighborhood pet store signed two conversions in Florida this year with one already opened. Additionally, the franchise is in the process of converting six stores, all under the same ownership, in upper New York State.

Independent pet retailers know more than anyone in the industry about the pressures of e-commerce and the negative affect it’s having on their purchasing power. This reality has resulted in once-exclusive pet products no longer being available to them and the consolidation of brands within the pet retail industry. That’s why Pet Supplies Plus focuses on helping existing, independent pet retailers and small pet retail chains stay competitive by partnering with them.

These retailers make great franchisees because they’re already passionate about the neighbors and their pets, and they’re accustomed to providing high-touch, convenient service. This combined with the purchasing power, merchandising, marketing, supply chain logistics and other ‘back room’ duties provided by Pet Supplies Plus makes for a winning combination.

Additionally, Pet Supplies Plus offers You Click. We Fetch™, an order-online and pickup in-store program that combines its personal-neighbor experience with the convenience of e-commerce. This omni-channel service allows neighbors to shop with their neighborhood Pet Supplies Plus how and when they want. Pet Supplies Plus is also developing You Click. We Fetch, a buy online and deliver-from-store program for 2020.

Independent pet retailers, existing franchisees and first-time business owners see there is an identifiable path to success with Pet Supplies Plus, given its best-in-class corporate support, competitive AUV average and nation-wide recognition. Most importantly, franchisees are able to focus on doing what they love and loving what they do.

“We’re leaders in this space because we created a neighbor-centric culture around people with an unparalleled passion for pets. Prospects are excited to join our franchise because they understand we ‘Minus the hassle’ for them. We take care of the labor-intensive, back-room duties which gives them the opportunity to interact with neighbors and their pets, build strong sales teams and connect with their local community. That’s why they got into the pet business in the first place, and we’re excited and proud to give them that experience.”

FDA Investigating Contaminated Pig Ear Treats Connecting to Salmonella

LIVONIA, Mich. — With the recent announcements of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigating contaminated Pig Ear Treats connecting to Salmonella, Pet Supplies Plus is advising consumers it is recalling bulk pig ear product supplied to all locations by several different vendors due to the potential of Salmonella contamination. Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Individuals infected with Salmonella should monitor for some, or all, of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare providers.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

Bulk pig ears were distributed to Pet Supplies Plus stores in AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NE, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, VA, WI and WV. Bulk pig ears were stocked in open bins. Prepackaged branded pig ears are not included in this voluntary recall.

To date, 45 individuals in 13 states have been diagnosed with Salmonella related illness. However, none of these cases are confirmed to be a result of purchasing pig ears from Pet Supplies Plus.

Testing by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development revealed that aging bulk pig ear product in one of our stores tested positive for Salmonella. We have pulled bulk pig ear product from the shelves at all of our stores and have stopped shipping bulk pig ears from our Distribution Center. We are working with the FDA as they continue their investigation as to what caused the reported Salmonella related illnesses.

Consumers who have purchased bulk pig ears should discontinue use of the product and discard it.  Consumers who have further questions are welcome to contact our Neighbor Service team at 734-793-6564 between Monday and Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. EDT (excluding holidays).