Retailer Research Findings Summary
Johnson's Veterinary Products recently surveyed pet product retailers across the UK ahead of National Pet Shop Day 2026 to better understand the challenges facing the sector, and what independent pet shops need to thrive. The findings paint a picture of a resilient, deeply committed industry under real and growing pressure.
These are businesses built to last
The retailers who responded are not newcomers. More than half have been trading for over 20 years, and one in nine has been serving their community for over half a century. These are not transient businesses. They are embedded in their local communities, often family-owned, and run by people who have dedicated their working lives to pet care.
The pressures are real and they are multiplying
The challenges facing independent pet retailers are well documented, but the scale of concern revealed in this survey is striking. Online competition and declining footfall are the two issues felt most acutely, cited by 83% and 81% of respondents respectively. More than half point to pressure from supermarkets and discount chains, while rising business rates and energy costs weigh heavily across the board. Nearly half flag the National Insurance increase as an additional burden. Taken together, these findings describe a sector being squeezed from multiple directions simultaneously.
The concern about manufacturers selling through online platforms is particularly acute, with 76% of respondents saying they are extremely concerned and a further 22% saying they are concerned. Feeling is equally strong about manufacturers selling through grocery and discount chains, with 72% extremely concerned. As one retailer put it: "Independent pet shops exist because the people behind them genuinely care about animals. They build their business on knowledge, experience, and a real commitment to welfare. What is frustrating is that people often come in for guidance, then buy the product cheaper from online retailers or a big supermarket. Small pet shops provide the expertise, but the sale goes elsewhere."
These shops are adapting, not standing still
Far from simply weathering the storm, independent pet retailers are evolving. Many have expanded into wellbeing and lifestyle products, developed their own-label ranges, moved into supplementary services such as grooming, training and tag engraving, and sourced more organic and locally produced stock. These are businesses actively reinventing themselves to meet changing consumer expectations, while staying true to the knowledge and personal service that defines them.
What they need most
When asked what would most help them overcome their challenges, the top requests were more competitive wholesale pricing and exclusive products for independents, both cited by over 85% of respondents. Lobbying and advocacy support, including national campaigns that champion independent retail, was the third most requested form of support, cited by 61%. Face-to-face contact with sales representatives remains highly valued, with 83% rating it as important or extremely important.
The connection to National Pet Shop Day
These findings sit alongside Johnson's consumer research to tell a complete story. Pet owners say they value independent pet shops. Retailers know the expertise and community connection they provide is unmatched. National Pet Shop Day is the bridge between the two: a national moment that gives retailers a platform to remind their communities why choosing local matters, and gives pet owners a reason to act on the goodwill they already feel.