Walmart adds 5 new pet service centers in the US
After the first location in Georgia, the American retail giant will open new centers in the same state and Arizona next month. GlobalPETS learns more.
These one-stop solution pet centers, which provide veterinary care, vaccinations, grooming services and pet prescriptions, build on the success of Walmart’s first pilot center in Dallas, Georgia, launched last year.
A Walmart spokesperson tells GlobalPETS that the first pet center has performed “very well” and exceeded the company’s expectations. “We see a high return rate for customers, and 25% of Walmart Pet Services Center customers were new to Walmart’s Pets department, indicating the center’s ability to attract new customers.”
Walmart is set to open 2 new centers in Georgia (Cumming and Alpharetta) and 3 in Arizona (Glendale, Chandler and Mesa) in November.
The services are powered by experienced veterinary professionals in collaboration with PetIQ, a US-based vet services provider.
Innovations in pet care services
As part of its expansion into the pet care segment, Walmart will officially launch its premium program Walmart+ with American online vet service company Pawp on 18 October, offering its members free, 24/7 virtual access to veterinary services.
“This new offering is especially noteworthy, as 75% of Walmart+ members have pets,” the spokesperson notes.
Walmart is also enhancing its pet product selection by introducing several new brands, including Goodlands Pet Food, Zuke’s Dog Treats, Rocco & Roxie, and Vet’s Best Flea and Tick.
The retailer is leveraging its omnichannel model to provide a wide range of affordable pet products both in-store and online.
“We remain committed to making pet care more affordable and convenient while ensuring our customers have access to top-quality products and services,” says Kaitlyn Shadiow, Vice President of Merchandising, Pets at Walmart US.
(Photo credit: Walmart)
