Pet Supplies Plus doesn’t have customers; pet parents who visit our stores are our neighbors. And Addy Shattuck is no stranger to her neighbors.
Addy – one of the first Pet Supplies Plus franchisees – owns three locations in Michigan. Her involvement with the local community builds brand loyalty and long-term patronage with her neighbors, a key foundation to a successful franchise.
Forever Homes
Addy’s in-store adoption events benefit the community on many levels. They not only connect Addy with new pet parents but also help animals in need—so much so that cat adoption centers are now a permanent part of her store.
Eight thousand friendly felines found forever homes through her efforts over the last 27 years. Addy herself adopted seven of those cats – bringing her pet household count to eight cats and one dog.
“A lot of the time, I get the cats from the county shelter. They get overrun there, and the animals are sometimes at risk for euthanizing. So, I’m happy to help out,” Addy said.
These local events positively impact the bottom line as well. New pet parents who adopt through Pet Supplies Plus return for future purchases and advice, fostering new and meaningful relationships for years to come.
Neighbors Make It All Possible
Addy’s event schedule grew from just a few community events to a full line up of holiday events, block parties, customer appreciation days and educational workshops.
These events often feature in-store deals, giveaways and fun events for pets and their families. Veterinarian led educational events are hugely successful and cover topics such as obesity, recognizing pets’ pain and dental health. Addy pays forward the positive outcomes of these event by requesting local shelter donations be given in lieu of admission charges.
These events are some of the most important things owners can do, according to Addy.
“Maybe your neighbors won’t notice if you don’t have events, but they will definitely notice if you do,” she said. “You have to give back. The whole reason I’m here is because of my neighbors, so I love being able to interact with them.”
Community-Focused Franchise
Pet Supplies Plus’ community-focused franchise model makes it easy for franchisees to engage with their neighbors in meaningful ways. Even though Addy’s district managers at each location oversee the day-to-day operations, she finds herself in her stores all the time.
“I work about seven days a week. I don’t have to, but I go because I love to,” she said. “I get to see neighbors I’ve known for years. I know their names and their pets’ names, even though those have changed over the years.”
Addy’s passion for interacting with neighbors drives her success in the community. If you want to have a meaningful impact on your local community as a Pet Supplies Plus franchise owner, get in touch with us here.
