IRVINE, CALIF. — Several pet-specific franchises have been identified in Businessman‘s 2024 Franchise 500 Ranking, which highlights successful franchise groups that have adapted to overcome the challenges posed by the evolving consumer landscape.
For 10th For consecutive years, Pet Supplies Plus has been ranked at the top of the pet franchise category and at No. 21 in general. The retailer has grown units by 39.5% over the past three years, now operating 703 storefronts across the United States and abroad, according to Businessman.
In 2023, Pet Supplies Plus — which also operates several Wag N’ Wash locations — expanded its presence in the Northeast United States, celebrated the opening of the first Wag N’ Wash store in Michigan, and announced an in-store recycling partnership with TerraCycle. The company also cut the ribbon on its new distribution center in Orangeburg, SC, which is expected to set the stage for growth in the Southeast region.
EarthWise Pet is ranked No. 6 in the pet category and No. 234 overall, with three-year unit growth of 239.3%. The pet supplies franchise has acquired 17 new retail locations by 2023, expanding its presence throughout Maine, as well as Orange County, Calif., and Scottsdale, Ariz.
In January, EarthWise announced several new franchise agreements to start the year, including new units in Wichita, Kan., Greeley, Colo., Orlando, Fla., Pittsburgh, Pa., and Fort Worth, Texas. The retailer also secured franchise rights for the entire state of Georgia. According to the company, it currently has more than 20 stores in development.
“We are delighted to welcome these new franchisees to our EarthWise family,” said Daniel Webb, chief development officer at EarthWise. “Their passion for pets and dedication to providing exceptional service aligns perfectly with our mission. We are excited to see them grow and bring holistic pet care to their communities.”
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is ranked No. 428 in the 2024 Franchise 500 and No. 10 in the pet category, with unit growth of 51.7% over the past three years. The company is signing new franchise agreements left and right, including entry into 10 new states, a planned expansion into the Canadian market and the opening of its 300.th store in late 2023. Woof Gang Bakery was also ranked on the Franchise Times 400 list last year, coming in at No. 335.
“We are thrilled to be recognized on Entrepreneur’s 45th Annual Franchise 500 List for the second year in a row,” said Ricardo Azevedo, chief executive officer at Woof Gang. “This achievement not only reflects Woof Gang’s commitment to excellence but also underscores our ability to adapt and evolve in the ever-evolving franchise industry. We remain committed to spreading love and joy to the communities that we serve, across the United States and beyond.”
According to the retailer, Woof Gang closed the year with its 350 openingsth store, marking “a significant milestone that underscores the brand’s mass appeal and growth.”
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