Pet stores across the United States are facing tough times.
As online shopping platforms like Chewy gain traction, many traditional pet retailers, including several in California, are starting to close down.
PetSmart is set to shut down its Sacramento store at 2705 E. Bidwell St on November 22, only a few months after closing its last location in San Francisco in July. Fortunately, they plan to keep another outlet open about a mile away in Folsom.
A representative from PetSmart mentioned, “We remain committed to serving pet parents throughout the area, who will continue to have access to our nearby Folsom – Iron Point store, located about 1 mile away, as well as online shopping with convenient delivery options,” when speaking to local news outlets.
The reason for the Sacramento closure wasn’t explicitly stated, but previous comments have suggested that competition from online retailers played a role in their decision to exit the Bay Area.
PetSmart noted, “As more customers choose online ordering, autoship, and same-day delivery, we’re continuing to adapt how we serve pet parents across the Bay Area,” reinforcing that customers will still have access to other nearby locations.
I remember visiting the PetSmart in San Francisco, which not only sold products but also offered services like dog and cat boarding, doggie day camp, and grooming. It’s a shame that such services will now be limited in the area.
Despite these closures, PetSmart will still operate over 150 stores throughout California and 1,600 across North America.
Founded in 1987 in Phoenix, Arizona, where its corporate headquarters is still located, PetSmart was acquired by private equity firm BC Partners for $8.7 billion in 2015.
It’s interesting to see how online shopping has transformed the way pet owners shop for their pets, making it much simpler to obtain routine items.
Jonathan Shenson, a bankruptcy and restructuring attorney, mentioned, “Consumers are still spending on their animals, but online retailers like Chewy are changing where those dollars go.” He pointed out that everyday purchases like food no longer necessitate a physical trip to the store, which is hurting traditional retailers who relied on in-person visits for additional sales.
PetSmart isn’t the only one feeling the pressure. Petco recently closed 25 stores in 2024 and plans to shutter even more locations in 2025. Meanwhile, Tractor Supply’s Petsense announced it would close 75 out of its 208 stores after reporting an unfavorable cash flow in their second-quarter earnings call.
