Industry Overview

The pet industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the country, with spending on pets projected to reach an all-time high of $40.8 billion in 2007. There are many changes afoot in this exploding arena, and they're for the better!

Caring for pet health is one of the industry's most powerful trends, and demand is increasing for organic and natural offerings. The dramatic expansion in the market for holistic products includes a full realm of items, from food and grooming products, to toys and pet litter. As people seek a more holistic approach for themselves and for their pets, retailers must become holistic to stay current.

shopoutsidetheboxmsmall.jpgThe mainstreaming of natural products is being driven by such factors as heightened product safety concerns, the growing clout of premium pet demographics, trends toward humanization and “functional pampering,” and the aging population. Moreover, the focus on green & natural is stepping up to include such considerations as locally grown and 100% U.S. sourced ingredients, in addition to ethical claims wwhich include sustainability, Fair Trade and cruelty-free, humane treatment methods.

The Big Bad Woof®'s practices are spot on with these concerns and others! In addition, The Big Bad Woof's Old Takoma store is a member of CO-OP America, whose mission includes creating a socially just and environmentally sustainable society. Other memberships include Think Local First DC and the Live Green Network.

We are Certified Members of B Corporation and our Hyattsville store is the first Benefit Corporation in the United States and Maryland.

To read more about the industry please visit our corporate website's Industry Facts.