The Pet Industry Re-Imagined
Then and Now
Like every industry, the pet industry has ebbs and flows. Before the increase of pet superstores in the late 80s and 90s, this industry consisted of specialty mom and pop shops. These shops were consumer-focused and typically specialized in aquatics, exotics, or whatever the owners had experience in. The owners were directly involved in their business and educated their consumers on animal care. The products sold were high-quality, and the customer service was top-notch.
In the late 80s, these shops became less popular and big chains took over. These chains were comparable to the Walmart of Pet Stores. Consumer education fell to the wayside, while supply and demand needed to be met. Quantity ruled over quality, allowing the creation of mass-market, non-natural, chemically-induced products. Consequences followed, causing a massive shift to the industry in the early to mid-2000s, which brings us to today.
Re-Imagining The Pet Industry Today
In today’s industry, consumers have variety that fits every budget. Companies are being transparent about what is in their products and are moving towards all-natural ingredients. These ingredients are used in food, toys, fabrics, cleaning products, and more. Creating a more open, honest relationship with consumers, along with a more high-quality industry is the goal.
Previously it seemed the pet industry called the shots, but now the consumers do. Customers have set the expectations, and companies are meeting them. This is forcing the industry to adapt and evolve, pushing companies to create products to meet consumers’ needs. Pet owners are more informed now than they’ve ever been, and they only want the best for their animals.
The great thing about the innovation of the pet industry is that healthier alternatives are becoming available. This consists of food, toys, fabrics (used in clothing, blankets, etc.), and even caging/crating alternatives for different types of animals. Homeopathic remedies, such as vitamins and CBD, are also included in this change. Lots of pet owners are now taking the holistic route instead of traditional medicine.
The Good and The Bad
Family-owned businesses actually stand a chance against big companies today. Many large companies don’t offer the healthier alternatives that consumers want, nor the education and customer service that they need.
One may argue we now have too many options and that less is more, but that’s simply not true. The more options we have, the more informed we’ll be. Education is power, and our animals deserve the best. Variety makes a world of difference.
Tlabambaa Doing Its Part
Tlabambaa plays a huge role in adding to the reinvention of the pet industry. In an ever-changing landscape, this privately-owned business pays homage to its predecessors. Chatting with Hafiza, the owner of Tlabambaa, provided more perspective on this topic.
Hafiza believes in supporting all animals holistically. Her brand offers modern, all-natural products to fit consumers’ needs. Tlabambaa’s scarves are hand-crafted from recyclable materials, and instead of adding to the 2-billion tons of annual global waste, the packaging is recyclable too! Sticking to her authenticity, it’s important to Hafiza that her brand works with manufacturers that match these same homeopathic, eco-friendly values.
Here at Tlabambaa, we strive for 100% customer satisfaction and take pride in high-quality products. We only want to provide our customers with the best because they’re our family.