Pet Supplies Plus has strategically positioned itself within the booming pet industry, and with the acquisition of Wag N’ Wash in 2022, the brand is further solidifying its national presence. This growth is spearheaded by Nick Russo, recently promoted to Chief Development and Stores Officer for both Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash. In a recent interview, Russo outlined his vision for expanding both brands across the nation, emphasizing a commitment to franchise owner support and a keen understanding of evolving pet market needs, including the increasingly important segment of Pet Supplies Plus Senior.
Nick Russo, previously Senior Vice President of Franchising for Pet Supplies Plus, brings significant retail expertise to his new role. His focus is bridging the crucial gap between franchise sales and store operations, ensuring a seamless experience for new franchise owners. CEO Chris Rowland highlights the importance of this unified approach: “To ensure our owners continue to feel supported after they’ve signed their franchise agreement, both the franchise development team and the store operations team report to our Chief Development and Stores Officer, Nick Russo. In this position, he oversees all aspects of franchise sales and store operations.” This integrated strategy is designed to foster stronger relationships and provide consistent support, particularly vital in the dynamic pet supplies plus senior market.
Rethinking the Franchise Onboarding Experience
Traditionally, the journey of a new franchise owner involved separate teams for sales and operations. Prospective owners would initially engage with a sales team, and upon finalizing their franchise agreement, they would transition to a different operations team to guide them through store setup and launch. This handover process, while intended to leverage specialized expertise, sometimes resulted in inconsistencies and a fragmented experience for the new franchisee.
Nick Russo’s new role aims to eliminate these potential disconnects. By overseeing both sales and operations, he ensures a continuous line of communication and support. Franchise owners now benefit from a consistent point of contact, from initial inquiry through store opening and beyond. This streamlined approach means Russo, who was involved in the initial franchise sale, remains accessible to address questions and provide ongoing support, fostering greater clarity and a stronger partnership.
The early results of this integrated approach are promising. Rowland notes, “Knowing that Nick sold them their franchise and is still there to support them as owners seems to ease onboarding stress and create a stronger relationship between our Franchise Owners and the brand.” This enhanced support system is particularly valuable as franchise owners navigate the complexities of the pet market, including the specialized needs of pet supplies plus senior customers.
Setting Franchisees Up for Success in the Growing Senior Pet Market
Russo recognized the national scalability of Pet Supplies Plus from the outset. The brand’s robust systems and market stability present a compelling franchise opportunity within the consistently growing pet industry. The pet supplies plus senior market is a significant driver within this growth. As pet lifespans increase thanks to advancements in veterinary care and nutrition, the demand for specialized products and services for aging pets is also rising.
Pet Supplies Plus is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. The franchise offers a comprehensive range of products, including specialized pet supplies plus senior options such as senior-specific diets, joint supplements, mobility aids, and comfortable bedding designed for older pets. By focusing on providing franchisees with the tools and knowledge to cater to this demographic, Pet Supplies Plus is ensuring their continued success.
The strategic alliance with Wag N’ Wash further strengthens this position. While Pet Supplies Plus excels as a full-service, large-format pet store catering to a broad customer base, Wag N’ Wash specializes in a smaller, service-driven model, particularly strong in grooming and self-wash services. This dual approach allows franchise owners to tap into different segments of the pet market, offering varied services that are highly relevant to pet supplies plus senior pet owners, such as gentle grooming for sensitive older pets. Together, the brands provide franchisees with the advantages of a large, recognized brand combined with the agility to adapt to specific market demands, including the growing senior pet sector. To explore these franchise opportunities further, visit the Pet Supplies Plus franchising website.
Ready to Explore the Best Pet Franchise Opportunities?
Pet Supplies Plus views its franchise owners as integral partners in enriching local communities. The brand is committed to providing exceptional support from the initial inquiry stage and throughout the entire franchise ownership journey. This commitment extends to equipping franchisees to effectively serve all pet owners, including those seeking pet supplies plus senior products and advice.
“We strive to provide best-in-class support to our franchisees from the first interaction and throughout their tenure as a Pet Supplies Plus Franchise Owner,” emphasizes Rowland. If you are passionate about pets and interested in a rewarding business venture within a thriving industry, consider exploring the available territories and learn more about why Pet Supplies Plus stands out as a leading multi-unit franchise opportunity. Discover how you can become part of a brand that is not only growing nationally but also dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of pet owners, particularly in the vital pet supplies plus senior market. Check out available franchise territories to take the first step.
