In the last year, stocks have fluctuated wildly, major corporations have laid off thousands of employees, banks have faltered and failed….and pet owners have continued to purchase gourmet pet foods and a slew of other pet products for their furry family members.  It seems that even a recession doesn’t slow down sales for retailers specializing in pet foods, pet toys and even designer label pet clothing.

Record Breaking Pet Product Sales Predicted for 2009

In fact, the American Pet Products Association (APPA) estimates that sales of pet products will actually increase in 2009 by over $2 billion.  Yes, you read that right!  Americans spent over $43 billion on their pets last year alone, proving that pampering our pets is a favorite pastime.  In rough economic times, the comfort of having an adoring dog snuggling up in your lap seems to be worth the cost of a few extra treats or a designer dog bed.  After all, unconditional love is priceless, and our pets give us their affection unreservedly.

Bob Vetere, the president of APPA, recently confirmed, “People are cutting back on a lot of areas, but are not cutting back on their pets.  They are postponing those vacations or downgrading their cars just to make sure that Fido and Fluffy are well taken care of.”

Baby Boomers Spoil Their Pets

Most baby boomers have sent their children off to college or homes of their own, and the empty nest syndrome is turning pets into surrogate children for many boomer couples.  While they wait the arrival of grandchildren to spoil, pampering their pets is filling a void.  To that end, many pet product retailers and manufacturers are now targeting this rich market.  These are the couples who can afford to lavish their pets with gourmet treats and give them upscale chew toys and bedding. 

Targeting the right customers during a recession is crucial to maintaining a strong sales record, and Furry Friends Web Design is here to help.  We keep our paws on the pulse of the pet products and pet services industries and can tailor your company’s website and advertising for the greatest possible impact on potential buyers.  If you’re ready to get a bigger piece of the pet industry’s $45.5 billion pie in 2009, contact us for a free consultation.