Pet Supplies Plus in Livonia, the largest independent pet retailer in North America, has acquired Colorado-based Wag N’ Wash, a natural pet food, self-wash, and grooming franchise with more than 15 locations. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Each brand will continue to operate as separate entities, providing pet product knowledge, personalized service, and a distinct shopping experience in their respective communities. All Wag N’ Wash corporate team members will remain at Wag Central in Colorado Springs.
Pet Supplies Plus, which has more than 600 stores in 39 states, offers a selection of services, prescription fulfillment, and a full assortment of pet products for all types of pets. Wag N’ Wash is mainly centered on self-wash, grooming services, and natural food options primarily for dogs and select cat items.
Both franchise systems are reported to have healthy unit economics as demand for pet products and services continues to grow and pet parents remain loyal to shopping local.
“The acquisition presents mutual benefits for franchisees, neighbors, and guests of both brands,” says Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus. “Pet Supplies Plus neighbors will see no change and will continue to receive the same neighborly service and access to all the same products for all types of pets. Wag N’ Wash guests will continue to enjoy this fun and passionate brand’s specialty offerings, but now will have access to an even greater assortment of products.”
Rowland notes that new and existing franchise owners will have the opportunity to open a store under the Wag N’ Wash or Pet Supplies Plus name, depending on what makes most sense for the market.
“Being under the Pet Supplies Plus umbrella company allows Wag N’ Wash to unlock a new level of purchasing power, funding to advance expansion and collective negotiation for strategic placement in territories that may not make sense for a Pet Supplies Plus store,” he says. “Because Wag N’ Wash’s specialty products and services are focused mainly on dogs, Pet Supplies Plus can further develop its presence in current and new markets without interfering with the neighbor’s expectations of our brand.”
Wag N’ Wash Vice President Kristen Risby says the acquisition adds value to all parties involved.
“Our owners find joy in serving their communities and pets well,” she says. “Now, they can do this with enhanced resources, such as best-in-class fulfillment and assortment though a collective supply chain, back-office functionality and technology, pricing and cost support and more. It’s a win for everyone from the franchise owners to the guests and their pets.”
Wag N’ Wash original founders Jef Strauss and Dan Remus will remain for a minimum of two years.
“As the pet landscape evolves, this will allow the brand to reach its full potential by reaching more guests at a better pace,” Remus says.
Strauss adds, “Culture was very important to us when looking for a partner. Both Pet Supplies Plus and Wag N’ Wash believes in community, local retail, and a fun experience in our stores. This was the right fit. With strong infrastructure behind them, passionate owners can build local relationships and deliver the ultimate experiential retail experience.”
