Walk into Pet Superstore Capalaba and Stafford and they are not the two stores they once were, after both recently undergoing major renovations and upgrades.
After being open for more than 12 years, Andrew Baker (Owner and Founder of the IndePet Group) decided it was time to make some changes and modernise the two stores, particularly with the growing competition online and big box corporates popping up everywhere.
“We wanted to modernise the stores and give our customers a new and unique shopping experience,” explained Baker.
“To survive as an independent, you need to offer an in-store experience customers enjoy, and a part of that is store ambience and layout.”
To offer the best in-store experience for customers, the renovations included the installation of new lighting, taller shelving, reconfiguration, big exhibitions, and development of the fit out. The goal was for the two stores to align and look like the same brand, which has successfully been achieved.
Baker explains that a big focus for the redesign was to have space for products on promotion.
“We wanted to maximise our promotional areas and customer flow around the stores,” he says.
Now that the stores are complete, a highlight for Baker is having more end caps to showcase all the great offers, which is a big drawcard for customers. The checkout area has also been set up for those impulse purchases including enrichment products such as treats and toys. The perfect add-on to food and other essentials.
After 26 years in the pet care industry, Baker followed his gut when it came to the store layout and did what he believed worked best for his customers, which didn’t necessarily follow the bigger corporates. It is nice and easy to make your way around, with clear directional and category signage throughout the store. Each section is well thought out including large live exhibitions with the fish and reptile displays deserving an honourable mention.
At the heart of the business is Pet Superstore’s team and their customers. The stores look incredible, but Baker admits without the dedicated team they wouldn’t be where they are today.
The team undergoes constant training to keep up with the everchanging industry and are invested in providing the very best for any customer that walks through the door.
You can always find a devoted pet expert whether it be Beau at Capalaba giving reptile advice, Cam at Stafford providing fish water quality education or Hannah giving the best food solution for your dog or cat. The team are all pet people and pride themselves on their passion for customers and caring for their pets.
The local Pet Superstore isn’t just a store, it’s a family-owned business that is a big part of the local community. It’s an experience for customers who can bring their pets, shop the extensive range, chat to the friendly team, and enjoy the newly renovated store.
Baker concludes: “We create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for our customers that only a family-owned independent can provide.”
Baker is one of the founders of IndePet, forming the group back in 2010.
This article was written by Krysten Arnold at IndePet and has been republished with permission.
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the Pet Industry News e-newsletter.