Not Afraid of the Big Dogs

Photo by docentjoyce

My miniature pinscher, Maggie, only weighs about 11 pounds. I am not sure of her exact height, but its got to be no more than 12 inches. However, Maggie doesn't know this. As far as she's concerned, she's a 180 pound St. Bernard with the intimidation factor of a Rottweiler. If a big dog challenges her, she will not back down. She's bold, brave and confident in her ability to take on any pooch.

This is the attitude of the small, local pet stores in Columbia in regards to the recent addition of mega pet speciality store PetSmart to the City's pet supply scene. An article in today's Saturday Business section of the Columbia Tribune reveals that the proprietors of shops such as Mexico Finns and Feathers, Noah's Pets and More, Columbia Pet Center, Lizzi & Rocco’s Natural Pet Market and Award Pet Supply are not concerned about losing sales to the retail giant. The consensus is that customers will remain loyal to local pet stores because they offer personalized service and niche products. Before PetSmart's arrival, PetCo was the largest store in town for pet supplies.  PetCo has more than 100 stores nationwide. PetSmart has 1,160 stores in North America and reported 2009 net sales of $5.9 billion. In the article, PetCo's manager expressed concern about the new competition because their stock is so similar. Not to mention that the stores are located less than half a mile apart.

This article made me happy. When I first read that PetSmart was coming to Columbia, I immediately feared for the locally owned shops. The idea of big business taking over is always a little disheartening for me. Plus, the local shops have such great partnerships with the local animal shelters and rescues. It was encouraging to hear that PetSmart's employees refer customers to local stores that have products that PetSmart doesn't carry. My hope is that PetSmart will  blend into the awesome pet scene in Columbia and give back to the town rather than take away. I love that the local pet store owners have such a tenacious spirit like my little min pin and aren't backing down to the big dogs!

Do you prefer to shop at local pet stores or national retailers? How do you think the arrival of PetSmart will effect local business?