After nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience and building a heartfelt retail brand from the ground up, Nicki Davis was ready for her next chapter. As a mom of four and a lifelong creative, she wanted a business that would blend her love for animals, her eye for branding and her drive to create meaningful local experiences. She found that in Pet Wants, the fresh pet food franchise under the Strategic Franchising Systems umbrella. Launching in March 2026, Pet Wants Wesley Chapel will bring fresh, nutrient-rich pet food to local families — with a personalized, community-first approach that Davis is already known for. 

1851 spoke with Davis to learn more about her background, what drew her to Pet Wants and her plans for the future. 

1851: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?

Nicki Davis: I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and a love for creating. Before Pet Wants, I owned All Good Things Gifts — a modern, funny and heartfelt gift boutique that I built from the ground up. That business taught me the value of brand identity, customer experience and building something that truly matters to people. As a mom of four, I wanted my next chapter to be something that aligned with both my personal life and my passion for business. That’s how Pet Wants Wesley Chapel was born — a place where we care deeply about the health and happiness of dogs (and cats!) in our community.

1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Davis: Before franchising, I managed every detail of my own independent retail store — marketing, operations, hiring, finances, buying and branding. I loved the creative freedom, but also realized how time-consuming and isolating it can be to do everything on your own. When I discovered Pet Wants, I saw an opportunity to run a business that still allowed me to be hands-on and creative, but with the added benefit of proven systems and a strong network of like-minded owners. It was a natural fit for where I was in both business and life.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Davis: Before becoming a franchisee, I thought franchising might limit creativity or feel too corporate. But I’ve learned that with the right brand, it’s the opposite — it’s empowering. Pet Wants encourages innovation and local flavor, giving me the freedom to make the business uniquely “Wesley Chapel” while still benefiting from the brand’s strong foundation and support system. Franchising, when done right, gives you the tools to succeed faster without having to reinvent the wheel.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Davis: Pet Wants immediately stood out because it’s not just another pet store — it’s a movement toward better pet nutrition and care. I fell in love with the mission of providing fresh, slow-cooked food that truly makes a difference in pets’ lives. I also love that Pet Wants gives owners creative freedom to build genuine connections locally — through markets, events and partnerships. It’s the kind of business that feels good to wake up to every day.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?

Davis: My goal is to make Pet Wants Wesley Chapel the go-to resource for pet parents who want the best for their dogs and cats. I want to build lasting relationships, grow our delivery and subscription base, and open our retail storefront as a hub for pet wellness — complete with self-wash tubs, healthy treats and a sense of community. Long-term, I plan to expand delivery routes, add local partnerships and possibly open a second location. My focus is steady, sustainable growth.

1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?

Davis: Everything I do is rooted in creativity and community. I’m a mom, a small business owner and a believer in creating opportunities that bring joy to people and their pets. This business allows me to combine my passions and make an impact right here at home.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?

Davis: Choose a franchise that aligns with your values — not just one that looks profitable on paper. Be prepared to work hard, but know that if you find the right brand, it won’t feel like work — it will feel like purpose. Lean into the systems, but also bring your personality and creativity to the table. That’s where the magic happens.

ABOUT PET WANTS:

Pet Wants is a pet health and wellness company that strives to improve the nutrition, health, vitality, and well-being of pets. Founded in 2010, the brand’s specially crafted, private-label pet food formulas are made in small batches with fresh, natural ingredients complete with vitamins and minerals for a complete and balanced diet in every bowl, all made in the USA. Pet Wants has set a new standard in what you should expect in your pet food through their 140+ locations across the United States. To learn more about Pet Wants, visit https://www.petwants.com/ or follow Pet Wants on LinkedIn, @petwantsusa on Facebook, @petwants on Twitter and Instagram.