Sell to Petco Stores & Become a Petco Vendor

Selling to Petco: Tips and Strategies by Karen Waksman

Petco, a known retailer specializing in supplies and services boasts an extensive network of over 1500 stores across the United States, Mexico and Puerto Rico. This provides an opportunity for product manufacturers to tap into Petcos purchasing power and boost their profits. However approaching a powerhouse like Petco can seem daunting for small business owners. In this article we will share insights and strategies from Karen Waksman, the founder of Retail MBA.

Overview of Becoming a Petco Vendor

Petco operates buying divisions across various countries and regions. If you initially approach the buyers in the United States but face rejection don’t lose hope. Instead consider exploring divisions within Petco such as Petco Mexico or Puerto Rico. These divisions often have budgets and purchasing capabilities along with requirements that your product might fulfill perfectly. By selling to these divisions you can open doors to opportunities with the U.S. Division in the future.

Moreover if you discover that your product doesn’t align well with the category specifically it might be worthwhile to explore categories available at Petco stores. For instance Petco offers products aimed at appealing to owners such, as candies and various items found at their checkout counters.
To successfully pitch your product to Petco it is essential to visit their stores and carefully assess their product offerings. This will help you determine where your product could potentially fit in.

Before Approaching Petco

Before approaching Petco with your pitch it’s crucial to have an understanding of the retailers needs and the overall pet industry. Petco places an emphasis, on the health and wellness of pets so its important that your product aligns with this mission. To increase your chances of success conduct research on Petcos buying trends. Gain insights into the broader pet industry.

When presenting your pitch to Petco make sure you have a crafted sales approach that highlights the selling points of your product. Emphasize how your offering aligns with Petcos mission. Brings value to their customers. A polished presentation is key so include samples of your product along with pricing information and marketing materials.

Petco also values suppliers who can meet their demand effectively. As a supplier you need to demonstrate that you have the capability to keep up with Petcos requirements by providing logistics support. Additionally consider developing a pricing strategy that takes into account Petco’s margins while also providing value for your business.

Once you secure cooperation from Petco they will provide guidelines on packaging, labeling and shipping procedures, for getting your products into their stores.
To ensure progress and avoid any setbacks it is crucial to adhere to these guidelines.

Additionally Petco offers a vendor compliance program that outlines the criteria, for conducting business with them. Complying with this program plays a role in establishing a partnership with Petco. It encompasses aspects such as packaging, labeling, shipping and invoicing. Neglecting to meet the programs requirements may lead to chargebacks and penalties.

Getting Started

Selling your products through Petco presents an opportunity for manufacturers. However it demands research, preparation and effective implementation. To enhance your likelihood of success consider exploring buying divisions within Petco familiarize yourself with their mission statement and develop a crafted sales pitch. When collaborating with Petco adherence to their vendor compliance program is of importance in order to prevent any complications or challenges from arising. For guidance, on selling to Petco or other retailers alike I recommend checking out Retail MBA.