Arcaplanet strengthens its southern Italy presence with 12 new stores

Italian pet retailer Arcaplanet has expanded its network through the acquisition of Animal Store, a local pet care chain that specializes in pet food, accessories and care products.

The deal adds 12 stores to the retailer’s network of more than 600 locations across the country. The acquired units are present in Calabria, southern Italy, including Reggio Calabria, Crotone, Cosenza, Gioia Tauro, San Marco Argentano and Cinquefrondi.

“The brand’s presence across southern Italy and the islands reaches approximately 80 locations, contributing to a more balanced coverage between the north, center and south,” the company tells GlobalPETS.

As part of the transaction, all 23 Animal Store employees will join Arcaplanet. The stores will continue operating under the current brand.

Supporting growth

Arcaplanet expects the expansion to support growth and help it reach new customer segments in the region. The deal also aligns with the company’s plan to open around 50 stores this year.

GlobalPETS learned that the pet retailer’s goal is to continue expanding into underserved areas over the next 2 to 4 years. The company aims to further strengthen national leadership and increase the brand’s presence across the country.

Arcaplanet serves over 2.8 million customers through its nationwide store network and online channels, supported by a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees. 

Partnership with Bricofer Group

The Italian player has also entered a 12-month strategic partnership with DIY retailer Bricofer Group to strengthen the pet category across the group’s retail network.

As part of the agreement, Arcaplanet will operate 15 branded standalone stores featuring the company’s product assortment, checkout systems and dedicated staff, as well as 8 Arcaplanet-branded shop-in-shop corners within selected Bricofer, Self and Ottimax locations.

The companies plan to extend the partnership beyond the initial phase, with a broader rollout of both store formats across the network targeted for 2027.

Bricofer Group operates a portfolio of retail brands specializing in DIY, home improvement, gardening and interior design. According to the company, it operates over 120 locations in Italy and carries more than 20,000 products.