What factors are influencing the online spending habits of pet owners in the UK?

A recent study conducted by logistics firm Whistl concludes that British pet parents are increasingly concerned about their spending habits, with almost 60% feeling the need to “keep a tight rein on their spending.”

The cost of delivery was the most important factor when purchasing pet supplies online. According to the survey, 63% of respondents said free delivery would be very appealing. 

Meanwhile, almost a third found speed of delivery to be the most important, with 32% preferring same or next-day delivery. Making returns easier was also a high-ranking category among pet parents. In total, 44% of respondents would be more attracted to buy if returns were free.

Influencers and sustainability

British pet parents are less drawn to influencer-style adverts with product endorsements advertised via social media, with 61% of respondents saying they found it unappealing or would even ignore it.

The survey found that sustainability was not a significant priority driving purchasing behavior, as only 8% of pet parent respondents “completely agree” that lowering their carbon footprint was more important than making a saving, with 38% being ambivalent or neutral. 

On the other hand, almost one-third of respondents see a green, sustainable option for delivery as an appealing feature, making them more likely to purchase.

Less spending?

Of the respondents who owned pets, the majority (71%) found they were concerned about the cost of living but would not cut back entirely, allowing for the occasional treat while emphasizing that money is less important than convenience. 

Whistl expects online spending to decrease by 12% this 2023, especially among those who own pets. The expected difference in online spending this year by pet owners is estimated to be -1.4% compared to last year. 

The survey asked 1,000 respondents from across the UK about their spending habits. Most of those surveyed (61%) had at least one pet, and women aged 35–54 were the majority of pet owners across the survey sample.