Pet Franchise Market: Trends & Opportunities

People love their pets. In fact, we love them so much that the pet care market is expected to reach a whopping $400.4 billion by 2028. 

The market is growing for several reasons. Jeff Wallace, co-founder of Well Groomed Pets, says that one of them is the increasinging “humanization” of pets. “More people view their pets as family members vs. mere possessions, leading to higher spending on premium products and services,” he told 1851 Franchise. 

Wallace also noted that the rise in pet ownership and adoptions, particularly during the pandemic and among younger generations, has expanded the overall market base. 

“Technological advancements have also played a role, with innovations in pet health, nutrition, and care products attracting consumers looking to increase their pet’s longevity,” Wallace said. 

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at some of the trends shaping the pet care industry. We’ll also be exploring some franchise opportunities for those looking to capitalize on these trends. 

Pet Health and Wellness Services

Just like humans, pets need regular healthcare too. Pet owners are increasingly seeking preventive health and wellness solutions for their furry companions, including regular check-ups and vaccinations.

“The pet health and wellness sector, including veterinary services, pet insurance and health-focused products, is experiencing substantial growth,” said Wallace. 

Pet health clinics and wellness center franchises offering veterinary services are in high demand. These businesses provide a reliable revenue stream while helping pet owners take better care of their beloved pets.

Nutritious Pet Products

More and more pet owners are becoming conscious of what they’re feeding their furry friends. 

“Premium and organic pet food products are growing in popularity as owners seek healthier options for their pets,” said Wallace. 

Owners are opting for products with healthier ingredients and are willing to spend a bit more for higher quality, more nutritious options. This trend has led to a rise in specialty pet brands offering a wide range of these health-conscious products. 

Technology Integration

From apps that help schedule grooming appointments to wearable devices that track pet health, technology is revolutionizing the pet industry and changing the way we care for our pets. 

“Another promising area is pet technology, encompassing smart pet devices, wearable trackers and automated feeders, all of which cater to tech-savvy pet owners,” said Wallace. “E-commerce and subscription services also present substantial opportunities due to their convenience and rising consumer preference for online shopping.” 

Franchise opportunities that embrace these technological advancements will be well-positioned to succeed in the market.

Mobile Pet Grooming

Pet owners are busier than ever, and they’re looking for grooming services that fit into their hectic schedules. That’s where mobile pet grooming comes in. Instead of having to take their pets to a salon, owners can now have groomers come directly to their homes. This trend is especially popular in cities where people may not have easy access to traditional grooming salons. For entrepreneurs, investing in a mobile pet grooming franchise could be a smart move to tap into this growing demand for convenience.

Multi-Service Franchising

Pet owners want convenience, and multi-service franchising models are meeting that demand. These franchises offer a variety of pet-related services all under one roof, including grooming, boarding, training and retail. By providing everything a pet owner needs in one place, multi-service franchises are attracting loyal customers and maximizing revenue opportunities.

Opportunities to Consider

The pet franchise industry is thriving, with plenty of opportunities for entrepreneurs to explore. 

“Right now, investing in a pet franchise is a smart move due to the robust and growing pet market,” said Wallace. “The consistent increase in pet ownership and spending on pet-related products and services creates a lucrative business environment. The strong emotional bond people have with their pets ensures steady demand, making it a resilient and rewarding investment opportunity.” 

Here are five pet-focused franchises to consider: 

Pet Wants

• Investment Range: $131,500 – $202,500
• Unit Count: 140+

Central Bark

• Investment Range: $552,769 – $934,172
• Unit Count: around 40

Dog Training Elite*

• Investment Range: $159,050 – $186,750
• Unit Count: 240+

Well Groomed Pets

• Investment Range: $189,150 – $273,500 (according to Entrepreneur)
• Unit Count: 20

Pet Supplies Plus

• Investment Range: $440,600 – $1,315,200.
• Unit Count: 700+

With the right business model and a passion for pets, aspiring franchise owners can find success while making a positive impact on the lives of pets and their owners alike.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.