For entrepreneurs looking to enter the booming pet industry, it can be difficult to distinguish the meaningful opportunities from the noise. With mobile-only concepts on one end of the spectrum and massive big-box pet retailers on the other, not every model fits what many new business owners are truly looking for: a scalable investment, a manageable entry point and a mission-driven brand that prioritizes quality.
According to Peter Eberly, vice president of brand development, Pet Wants stands out because it hits all the right notes at once.
“When I think of Pet Wants, there are a lot of other pet franchises out there,” Eberly said. “But the brand really falls into a sweet spot. There are a lot that are mobile-driven - like dog grooming or poop pickup - that are fairly low-cost. But then there are the really big box retailers with brick-and-mortar locations. Those have a huge entry price point. I always say Pet Wants fills the middle ground there.”
A Business Model That Occupies the Perfect “Middle Ground”
Eberly says the ability to combine an approachable investment with a community-centered retail model is one of Pet Wants’ most strategic strengths.
“It’s pretty affordable as a point of entry,” he said. “There is a brick-and-mortar component to it, but it's more of a hometown, mainstream boutique brick-and-mortar shop. It’s more approachable and less scary than the bigger brands.”
This “boutique but accessible” positioning has become one of Pet Wants’ strongest differentiators — especially in a market where pet parents increasingly want expertise, transparency and personal connection.
“It fits a really nice sweet spot there and is really all about the food and the product,” Eberly said. “The brand’s calling card is the fresh, healthy food that is made in small batches and slow cooked. It is delivered fast; it isn’t sitting on the shelf for a while.”
That emphasis on fresh, nutrient-rich food is why so many franchisees originally discovered the brand as customers. “So many owners are folks who found the brand as a consumer,” he said. “Their pet had some issues and they found the Pet Wants product and became an advocate for themselves. They wanted to share that and start their own business in the space.”
A Two-Phase Model That Lets Owners Build Revenue From Day One
Beyond its product differentiation, Eberly says Pet Wants’ two-phase business model is one of the most compelling reasons to invest.
“Another differentiator is that we have this two-phase approach — you can start mobile, getting the name out in the community, drive revenue and build a client list and a customer base as you get ready to build the brick-and-mortar store,” he said.
In an industry where traditional retail concepts often require months of buildout without revenue, this structure allows franchisees to generate cash flow while also laying the groundwork for long-term scalability.
“It’s very different than other pet retail franchises, where revenue isn’t typically coming in as you start the business,” Eberly said. “That is a huge differentiator and advantage.”
A Personalized, Educational Retail Experience
Pet Wants stores aren’t designed to mirror high-traffic discount pet chains. Instead, they intentionally operate like trusted neighborhood nutrition centers.
“The owners who have been successful here are the ones who are passionate about improving the lives of pets in their community,” Eberly said. “If you think of that main-street, boutique feel, the pet and the pet owners come to learn about what might make their dog or cat healthier. There is a personal relationship component to the brick-and-mortar piece. It is much more personalized than a typical retail environment.”
This approach aligns with the brand’s larger mission: helping pet owners access healthier nutrition, better education and a more meaningful shopping experience. Franchisees are encouraged — and trained — to become local experts, not just retailers.
A Support Network That Sets Owners Up for Success
Eberly says that what happens behind the scenes is just as important.
“Our owners are really passionate about pets; they found the brand as consumers originally,” he said. “They are believers in the product and there is a strong network of other owners who have built this network of sharing best practices and the like.”
This combination of corporate support and franchisee-to-franchisee collaboration creates an environment where new owners never feel alone and where collective learning accelerates individual success.
A Growing Brand With Momentum and Room To Scale
As the pet industry continues its rapid expansion, Pet Wants is well-positioned for significant continued growth. Eberly believes the brand is perfectly aligned with what modern pet parents are demanding.
“We are a growing brand that has seen some nice momentum,” he said. “But we think along with the macro trends, our type of pet franchise is set for major growth. That health trend, even in the pet space, makes us feel like we have the wind at our back around our concept. We are growing, but have plenty of room to expand and help other communities.”
At its core, Pet Wants attracts individuals who are passionate about animals and eager to make a meaningful impact on their community while also building a scalable business with strong earning potential.
Ready to build a business rooted in purpose, passion and pet health and wellness? Visit https://1851franchise.com/petwants/info to learn more about franchising with Pet Wants.