As in all other sectors, grooming is subject to trends. Reason for PETS International to speak with grooming expert Farah Eggers about key shifts in the market.
What different types of grooming are currently relevant?
Farah Eggers: “Basically, there are three types of grooming. First is the grooming for competition and shows. Whatever the breed, proper grooming will make the dog look its very best.
Second, is what I call modern grooming. This type of grooming is done the most by far. Nowadays there is a clear and outspoken emphasis on ‘natural’. This means grooming in line with the natural looks of the dog.
Third, are the unusual grooming styles – such as the Asian style – that gives the pet a special look. Not surprisingly, it is the most extreme and difficult type of grooming.”
What is the added value of a grooming professional?
Farah Eggers: “Grooming is a creative job. But pet’s welfare is always leading. As a professional, you continually stay on top of new trends and techniques to ensure a dog gets the best treatment.”
What are the future trends in grooming?
Farah Eggers: “In the past, grooming salons were set up in or next to the house of the grooming professional. Nowadays, in big cities, this is no longer feasible. In urbanised areas, salons are moving into pet shops as a shop-in-shop concept.
In rural areas, I expect the stand-alone salons to be able to continue business, but not as usual! Pet parents are increasingly looking for personalised grooming services. And, in some areas, clients are even looking for mobile grooming services. The difficulty with such mobile services is that dogs can be more difficult to groom in their own surroundings than in a salon. Also, from a business perspective, things such as driving distances between clients, fewer clients per day and the need to carry around all the grooming tools can be challenging. For the latter, I can imagine that mobile grooming vans could offer a fitting solution, with all the grooming equipment in the van.”
What about the trend towards total pet care?
Farah Eggers: “We see that pet parents realise that the welfare and well-being of their pet are not guaranteed by a visit to the vet. They are actively busy ensuring the all-round condition of their pet is OK. This includes the right type of food and enough exercise, resulting in a happy and healthy dog.
Keeping a dog looking good with regular visits to a grooming professional is an important part of their all-round condition. It is why we see an increasing demand for grooming services. Selecting a salon is usually done based on cleanliness, professionalism and, of course, whether there is a ‘click’ between the dog and the groomer. For some dog owners, success at competitions or shows can also be leading in their choice of salon.”
How has COVID impacted grooming?
Farah Eggers: “For many professionals, COVID has resulted in hard times, with salons having to close in many countries. It is anybody’s guess what the long-term impact will be. However, a positive effect has been the introduction of click-and-collect options.”
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