Out the Box

Pets rejoice

Asda’s new ‘pet zones’ promise to create a one-stop-shop for pet parents.

Asda has launched a ‘pet zone’ in selected stores to help shoppers pick up everything from insurance to accessories for their furry friends.

WHAT’S NEW ABOUT THIS?

This is a properly dedicated pet aisle, catering for both dogs and cats at all life stages offering a variety of brands, following the retailer’s deal with six specialist brands.

For example, teaming up with Petface allows Asda to feature an extensive range of accessories and toys, including eco-toys from Petface Planet, along with UK-produced fragrances and grooming products from Bugalugs.

The selection of brands aims to offer something for every budget, enabling customers to pick up ‘specialist’ and harder-to-find products more conveniently, such as Denzel’s Brunch Bites and Bugalugs ‘One in a Million’ dog cologne.

HOW DID THE DECISION FOR PET ZONE COME ABOUT?

There’s been a boom in the number of pets acquired since the start of the pandemic, with more than 3.2 million households in the UK now thought to have adopted or bought a pet.

As a result of that trend, it was only a matter of time for one of the big retailers to dedicate a full aisle to furry friends, with consumers demanding greater choice in the category.

WHAT’S ASDA SAYING ABOUT IT?

“We’re partnering with some brilliant brands to bring a wide range of pet products to these stores – including items that would usually only be found in specialist retailers,” Matt Harrison, Senior Director of Partnerships and Business Development at Asda, said. “We’re pleased that through partnerships with innovative brands we’re able to offer products for pets of all ages and satisfy the needs of our customers in these five stores.”

IS IT AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE?

No, it is currently being trialled in Gateshead, Eastlands, Minworth, West Bridgford, and Caerphilly stores.