Anticipating urban growth
With the successful HALTI Walking Range, The Company of Animals talk to us about their ongoing international growth, as people around the globe are increasingly living in urban environments.
Human animal bond
The UK company is building a strong worldwide presence as it capitalizes on the growing interest in humane dog training products across the globe. International sales have grown by over 35% in the last two years and the company is now selling its range of dog accessories and training products in over 50 countries worldwide. This current wave of changing consumer preferences is highlighted by European Sales Manager, Idris Sheikh: “We are actively building on increasing consumer interest in modern dog training products in markets such as Eastern Europe, Russia and the Middle East.”
Dr Roger Mugford, world renowned animal psychologist and the companies founder adds: “There is a common thread all over the world in people sharing their lives with pets. The human animal bond and the rewarding companionship that these relationships provide pervade national boundaries.” The company also anticipates a continued trend in urban growth.
Re-landscaping
Interestingly with its new HALTI Walking range of Collars, Leads and Harnesses, the company has also recognised that people around the globe are increasingly living in urban environments. Some cities such as London and Paris have inherited parks from previous generations however modern megacities are also realising the importance of green leisure space for people’s health and varied lifestyles. For example, Shanghai is currently re-landscaping to ensure residents in the inner city centre live no more than 500 meters from an open green space. “Dogs regardless of breed or size are social pack animals and do need regular socialisation with other dogs to stay happy and healthy wherever they live,” says Dr Mugford. This new product range features urban safety features like close control handles and reflective strip for visibility at night.
Additional help
Other global population trends are also introducing people to the companies range of dog solutions and accessories. Retirees have time and money to devote to their dogs. In return they are enjoying the health and companionship benefits that walking and playing with their pet provides. Interestingly, older people often want to own breeds that they have grown up with or owned all their lives. This can provide new challenges. In Dr Mugford’s experience he frequently comes across people who still want to own large breeds such as Labradors, German Shepherds and even Great Danes. However, as he comments “Sometimes these owners find they need additional help to manage these powerful breeds. Our head collars and training leads can be a great way to provide additional safety and avoid injuries for the owner.”
New retail environment
Commercial Director Mark Turrell also sees immense global potential across the company’s brands: “In 2016 we continue to see strong growth in all markets.” Mark acknowledges that the pet industry is embracing a new retail environment with e-tailers becoming more influential. Also the trend for new style retailers such as national chains and premium independents is becoming evident in many markets. “Continuity of supply is essential as we grow. The company continues to invest in supply chain structures and technology systems to ensure our customer service experience supports consumer lifestyle choices and the changing pace of pet retail.”