Why National Pet Shop Day Matters

At the Pet Industry Federation, we are proud to support National Pet Shop Day, a day dedicated to recognising and celebrating the pet retailers that lie at the heart of the UK’s pet industry. 

Local pet shops do so much more than sell products. They are community hubs, trusted sources of expert advice, and champions of pet wellbeing. When pets are such an important part of our families, it’s vital that owners get the right guidance and products tailored to their individual needs. This is where our pet retailers shine. They offer personal, knowledgeable support that simply can’t be replicated by anonymous online platforms. 

More than that, pet shops play a crucial role in driving innovation within the sector. They’re the first to champion new brands, support emerging trends and offer specialist products that cater to the ever-evolving needs of pets and their owners. Local retailers are on the frontline of the pet world, helping to educate customers, promote responsible ownership and ensure high standards of care across the board. 

National Pet Shop Day is our chance to shine a light on the people behind these businesses; those who go above and beyond every day for their customers and the animals they care about. It’s also an opportunity to remind the public just how valuable their local pet shop is, and to encourage them to show their support. 

We want to see this year’s National Pet Shop Day grow even bigger and better than before. And that’s where you come in. If you run or work in a pet shop, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Whether it’s hosting an in-store event, running a promotion, partnering with local schools or charities, or simply sharing your story on social media, there’s a wealth of ideas and resources available on their website.

Let’s turn National Pet Shop Day into a movement: one that celebrates the role of pet retailers, strengthens the connection between shops and their communities, and encourages more people to shop locally and responsibly. 

At the Pet Industry Federation, we’re here to support pet retailers all year round. Our members benefit from business support, training opportunities, networking, and exclusive resources to help them thrive in a competitive marketplace. If you’re not yet a member, we’d love to welcome you into our community – visit www.petfederation.co.uk to find out more. 

So, this National Pet Shop Day, let’s come together to champion the high street pet shop. Let’s recognise their value, share their stories, and ensure they continue to thrive for years to come – for the benefit of pets, owners, and the wider industry. 

Nigel Baker, CEO, Pet Industry Federation