Tackshops can catch canine customers’ eyes (and noses), says independent brand.
Dog owners – unlike horse owners – can take their animals shopping with them.
It’s something equestrian stores should be using to their advantage, says Barbara Henly from plant-based dog treats brand Soopa.
She suggests displaying delicious dog treats at humans’ and dogs’ respective sight and sniff levels to capture the attention of both.
“Pet parents can bring their dogs into the store to browse with them,” she says, “so stores should display merchandise to appeal to visiting shoppers and their dogs.”
As more equestrian retailers see the value of diversifying into appropriate pet products – particularly ahead of Christmas – Barbara has more suggestions:
- Having an airtight container of treats at the till point to offer to visiting dogs is a great upsell. Rotate brands/flavours and keep corresponding packets ready to buy.
- Dog owners are alert to allergies, weight gain and other common canine conditions. So, offer healthy, nutritious treats for universal appeal.
- Capture shoppers' imagination with eye-catching displays. Seasonal themes and colour-coordinated merchandising can entice shoppers to upscale their purchase decisions as they browse.
- Offer something unique. Stock independent brands and new products where possible to give your customers a shopping experience they won't find everywhere.
- Natural animal bones might be tempting to dogs, but in artificially heated environments, they can emit an off-putting odour to browsing shoppers.
- Ask customers about their dogs’ names, ages and backgrounds. Everyone loves to talk about their four-legged friends.
Soopa is stocked in pet stores across the UK. The brand launched in the USA earlier this year.
More on pet brands and products for wild birds in ETN’s January 2025 issue.
