Pandemic boosts SM pet care unit

Just like the plant craze that was spawned by the pandemic, the pet care business is also booming as locked-down consumers increasingly turned to pet companionship to uplift themselves during these challenging times.

Pet Express, the pet care retailing brand of the SM group, reported increased volumes and online sales as pet owners stocked up on pet essentials to prepare for extended lockdowns.

In 2020, Pet Express’ online sales grew by 98 percent versus 2019, the last full year before the pandemic.

“In the wake of hard lockdowns, the need for pet companionship has seen a healthy surge. Pet retail stores are now deemed as an essential business,” Pet Express said in a press statement.

Other essential pet care items being sold are toiletries, medicine and supplements.

To meet rising demand, Pet Express is set to open three more stores, bringing its nationwide network to 20 by the end of 2021. Pet Express is also moving to launch online vet consultation and home service for pets’ grooming and medical needs. INQ