One of the biggest questions when exploring franchise ownership is simple: Will this actually work for me? The answer often depends on flexibility. That’s exactly where Pet Wants stands out.

With a mobile-first approach, a scalable path to brick-and-mortar and a deeply supportive system, the Pet Wants franchise model is designed to meet owners where they are and grow with them over time.

“We have a proven system in place,” said Angela Esposito, vice president of franchise development. “The risk of opening a business or starting a business with a Pet Wants franchise is obviously less risky than going on your own. It’s really a business in a box. You just have to put in the work and execute the steps that are laid out.”

That clarity gives franchisees a roadmap from day one, allowing them to focus less on guesswork and more on execution.

A Flexible Model Built for Different Lifestyles

At the core of the Pet Wants model is flexibility, not just in how the business operates, but in how it fits into an owner’s life.

Rather than jumping straight into the complexity of running a retail store, franchisees begin by building their business through local events, delivery and community engagement. This phase allows owners to:

• Generate revenue early
• Build a loyal customer base
• Learn the business hands-on
• Grow at their own pace

“The great thing about our model is that it has two phases,” Esposito said. “In the mobile phase, there is a lot of flexibility because you are out in the market working events. That usually isn’t seven days a week. So they have flexibility during that phase to build the business in other ways, such as grassroots marketing and networking. They can really think outside of the box about how to grow the business, without worrying about the retail location.”

When the time comes to expand, the transition to a storefront is strategic and manageable. “Once that retail location is open, they can hire staff and often have much more flexible hours,” she said.

Lower Investment, Smarter Growth

The mobile-first model also makes financial sense. “Starting with mobile keeps the investment costs down in the beginning, and it is also a very low-entry point for a brick-and-mortar,” Esposito said. “Our investment range is one of the most affordable for a retail location, especially in the pet industry. Our competitors are often in the million-dollar range as far as investment.”

That lower barrier to entry opens the door for a wider range of entrepreneurs, including first-time business owners who may not have the capital for a traditional retail concept.

“It’s a low-overhead, low entry point investment,” she said. “Owning a business is an investment — it’s no different than investing in the stock market or real estate. You are going to have to pay for that.”

Pet Wants franchisees are also entering one of the most resilient and rapidly growing industries in the U.S.

“The pet industry is one of the fastest-growing industries that there is,” Esposito said. “It’s among the top three to five franchise categories to own in 2026, one of the most compelling industries and a growing demand for professional services. The pet industry hit $128 billion this past year.”

Built on Community and Purpose

While the business model is strong, Pet Wants is equally focused on why its franchisees do what they do.

“Community involvement is definitely a big part of the model as well,” Esposito said. “We want someone who wants to be part of their community and wants to change the lives of dogs and cats.”

From farmers markets and other events to partnering with local businesses, franchisees are encouraged to become visible, trusted members of their communities by building relationships that drive impact and revenue.

These connections often lead to a more fulfilling day-to-day experience for owners. “As a business owner in general, your lifestyle is completely different from someone in corporate America,” she said. “It shifts from sitting in a cubicle all day to building a business and a brand that you love and are passionate about. They are going to be in the community, working with dogs and cats, and they are really going to enjoy a life full of passion-driven purpose.”

Ongoing Support at Every Stage

Even with a hard work ethic, strong model and industry tailwinds, success ultimately comes down to execution, and that’s where Pet Wants’ support system plays a critical role.

“Our owners are supported from the time they start their franchise agreement all the way until the end of their agreement,” Esposito said. “We support them through onboarding, and have coaches focusing on nutrition, retail, marketing and grooming, there is a subject matter expert for every stage in their journey, whether that is year one or year seven.”

From operational guidance to financial performance, franchisees have access to ongoing expertise designed to help them grow.

“There is always someone there to help them solve problems, brainstorm, help with P&L, increase profit,” she said. “That is why there really isn’t any experience necessary, we can teach you everything.”

A Franchise Model That Grows With You

From mobile beginnings to retail expansion, the Pet Wants franchise model gives owners room to grow at their own pace. For many franchisees, that is what turns the business into more than an investment: It becomes part of their lifestyle, community and passion for pet health.

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.