Why Is Pet Store Franchising Thriving in the UK?

Recent data shows that 51% of UK adults own a pet, representing around 17 million households. This enduring affinity ensures the pet industry remains one of the UK’s most robust and recession-resistant sectors, with opportunity galore for entrepreneurs keen to make their mark.

According to PDSA and the latest market studies, looking after a pet in the UK typically costs between £70 and £105 per month, with lifetime costs ranging from £6,500 up to £17,000, especially for ‘trendy’ and designer dog breeds. The past decade has seen an eightfold increase in designer dogs, think chihuahuas, pugs, dachshunds, French bulldogs, and cross-breeds such as puggles and labradoodles, many of which cost over £1,000 and are pampered as part of the family.

Pet stores across the country profit by meeting the needs of these much-loved companions, providing essentials like food, toys, beds, training products, and increasingly, health treatments and wellness accessories. Unsurprisingly, pet franchise opportunities consistently rank among the most sought-after business choices month after month.

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The UK pet care market: A booming, recession-resistant industry

The UK pet care market is thriving, powered by rising pet ownership and the widespread humanisation of pets. As of 2024, the market is valued at about £6.9 billion, with forecasts exceeding £13 billion by 2033 and annual growth rates of over 5%.

There are now over 10 million dogs and 10 million cats living in the UK, and expenditure per pet continues to climb. Owners are prioritising premium nutrition, luxury bedding, regular grooming, and tailored pet wellness solutions, reflecting a global shift toward quality, convenience, and personalisation.

A standout trend is pet humanisation: four in five owners seek healthier, more sustainable choices for their pets, with 66% more attentive to food composition than a year ago. Many now celebrate birthdays, book holidays for pets, and invest in spa and grooming services, behaviours mirroring how they treat children or family members.

Consistent demand, strong emotional attachment, and proven resilience during economic downturns make the UK pet care sector one of the most opportunity-rich markets for franchise investment. Whether you build a physical store, embrace e-commerce, or offer specialist services, the appetite for high-quality, convenient pet care solutions is only accelerating.

What does it take to own a pet?

Providing high-quality pet care is no small task. From training and feeding to exercise and grooming, pets require devoted attention. For busy owners, this can become challenging, which is why a multitude of businesses have emerged to fill the gap, pet walkers, groomers, and retail stores for food, accessories, beds, and much more. Their services not only relieve pet owners but also contribute to healthier, happier pets.

What kinds of pet care business are there?

Pet care businesses range widely in size and specialisation. You’ll find solo traders and larger outfits offering walking and pet sitting services to prevent pets being left alone. Catteries and kennels look after pets while their owners travel. Subscription food delivery companies provide door-to-door nutrition, and groomers offer trims either in-store or at home. For prospective pet owners, breeders and stores help match families with their new companions.

Pet care store

For those wanting a one-stop shop, the pet care store is an essential solution. These stores offer everything from food and bedding to grooming tools, health treatments, and wellness accessories. Catering for cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, fish, and reptiles, successful store owners are knowledgeable about their products and customer needs.

Why pet stores are lucrative businesses

The humanisation of pets has helped the sector flourish. Owners treat their pets as family, prioritising their wellbeing even in tough economic times. High demand for premium products, such as organic foods, stylish beds, wellness supplements, and fashionable accessories, allows stores to widen their margins. The sector’s economic resilience is clear: during recessions and inflationary periods, Brits continue to spend on pet essentials and luxuries alike.

Online pet store

Digital transformation is also revolutionising pet care. Online pet stores offer speed, convenience, bulk savings, and access to specialist products for specific needs. Rapid growth in e-commerce, food subscriptions, and on-demand delivery now rivals the high street model. Many physical retailers successfully combine in-store and online offerings, while newcomers often launch fully digital businesses to meet new market expectations.

Franchising opportunities

For aspiring business owners, setting up a pet store franchise eliminates much of the guesswork. Multiple models are available via Point Franchise: from pet food and accessory delivery, to pet sitting, boarding, and mobile grooming. For instance, Husse specialises in premium home delivery of dog and cat food, litter, and accessories; Barking Mad offers unique dog-sitting alternatives to kennels; Dial a Dog Wash provides quick, convenient grooming.

These examples highlight the vast opportunities available. If you love animals and dream of running your own business, pet care franchising could be your route to long-term success in a resilient, growing market—the UK’s devotion to its pets is unlikely to fade any time soon.