Since the start of the pandemic, 59 per cent of UK households are responsible for a pet’s welfare
Since the start of the pandemic, a total of 3.2 million households have acquired a pet, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association. With the boom in pet ownership, there are now 34 million pets in the UK, including 12 million cats and 12 million dogs, 3.2 million small mammals such as guinea pigs and hamsters, 3 million birds and 1.5 million reptiles. There are also 5 million aquaria. This equates to 17 million households (59 per cent) responsible for a pet’s welfare.
Companion animals have been driving industry sales, and that’s a trend that will continue for the foreseeable future. As the pet industry is a vibrant growth market, it provides an excellent business opportunity and thus, attracts significant interest.
One petcare brand that is capitalising on these growth numbers is OSCAR Pet Foods.
“When my fellow franchisee at OSCAR Pet Foods Coventry reached retirement the opportunity to purchase his franchise became a reality and I’m now the proud owner of a ‘double site’ OSCAR franchise – in spite of COVID-19,” said Wayne McLanaghan, OSCAR Pet Foods Coventry and Warwickshire.
“Thankfully, my area covers three local market towns, which (out of lockdown) provide opportunities to pitch stalls and connect with the local community. I’ve definitely had to put my thinking cap on during the pandemic.
“There’s no doubt that having previous experience in setting up and running my own business has helped me to stay on my feet and navigate new ways to generate sales – not to mention the step-change in marketing opportunities. It helps to be adaptable and to embrace the (dare I say) ‘necessary evil’ of social media; it really makes a difference because visibility is vital.”
OSCAR’s nationwide network of local nutritional advisors delivers an exciting range of nutritious pet foods (including small animal, wild bird and fish food), tasty treats, boredom-busting toys, healthcare and pet accessories straight to the door.
The importance of a pet’s happiness and health drives OSCAR to deliver nutritional excellence. That’s why its dog and cat food range only contain scientifically proven ingredients to maximise vitality: tailored to reflect life’s changing nutritional needs. From Puppy & Kitten Care through to Adult & Senior Care its extensive range includes grain-free, gluten-free and weight control options.
“When it comes to customer sales, what matters most is care and support. Helping customers choose pet food wisely means their pets benefit the most, and it’s a joy to be part of that outcome,” explained Wayne.
Fortunately, with 25 years of successful franchising, OSCAR understands that not all franchisees have the same needs. That’s why it offers bespoke franchise packages based on choice and flexibility: choice of financial investment, and flexible start-up packages that manage expanding knowledge and expertise at a comfortable pace.
“Throughout two years of meticulous research into the industry, no other company took such a warm and genuine interest in our business enquiry. OSCAR’s support from the head office and amazing communication are second to none. Given the current situation with COVID-19, we simply wouldn’t be doing it if we didn’t believe in it,” said Andy and Nick Watson, OSCAR Pet Foods Torbay.
As the demand for safe home-delivery of quality pet food increases, OSCAR is looking to expand its network of franchisees across the UK.