How retailers can appeal to the eco-conscious pet parent

As is the case right now across consumer culture, pet owners are making purchases with the environment at the forefront of their mind. In fact, in a recent Beco survey, 78% of customers said that sustainability is a major influence when deciding what to buy. Times are definitely changing. To accommodate this shift towards sustainable consumerism, there are a growing number of eco-friendly pet products now available. This shift isn’t a fleeting trend, however. These are lasting changes to what pet parents are buying, and we can expect them to stay. There are also new pet owners that retailers need to consider. Millennials buying for their first-time pets are naturally more eco-conscious. This means not only is there an opportunity to keep your current customers on side, but it’s a great chance to attract new faces from a different target audience. With this is in mind, it’s not a bad idea for retailers to start stocking more of these eco-friendly products. This is for two reasons: one, you’ll be doing your bit to help our environment; and two, it will only increase sales and help your business. So, what kind of products are we talking about? Wherever you look, pet products are changing for better. Whether it’s natural flea and tick repellent to combat our contaminated rivers, recycled plastic collars and leads, or naturally sourced shampoos, everyday pet items are changing for good. What about dog poop bags? One area leading the way is dog poop bags. While it’s hard to eliminate the impact picking up our dog’s poop has on our planet, there are innovative ways to help reduce it. There’s an estimated 2.5 million kilograms of dog poop deposited every day, which means a whole load of poop bags. But what poop bags are pet owners using? Biodegradable dog poop bags and compostable poop bags These bags established themselves on the dog poop stage a number of years ago, but they are now more popular than ever – a big reason why more and more retailers are stocking them. These bags decompose when exposed to bacteria or other living organisms. Compostable dog poop bags degrade when placed in compost pile. These re-enter the natural environment and are made from bio-based materials and typically decompose fully between three to six months. Compostable poop bags are also great because they’re made out of plant-based materials that have a much smaller environmental impact when being made. Common materials, like cornstarch, are sustainably sourced and have a much smaller carbon footprint. To find out more about compostable poop bags, check out Beco’s blog that uncovers all about composting dog poo. Why it’s a good idea to stock these bags These types of bags are on the up. Pet owners are far more conscious of threats certain products pose to our planet. Biodegradable and compostable poop bags are a popular alternative that pet retailers should seriously consider. Yes, they are a little more expensive, but eco-conscious pet owners are demonstrating they’re willing to pay a bit extra for bags that go a long way. This not only keeps your customers happy, but it also grows your cash margin at the same time – the perfect combination. How to sell them Dog owners have their preferences when it comes to poop bags. Many like to buy in bulk, big boxes with rolls upon rolls of bags. Others prefer smaller quantities, slightly more impulsive. These are the types of buyers who will keep on adding to their basket, as long as they like what they see. Try placing these eco-friendly poop bags on the counter or at the checkout. Now we know pet parents are looking to buy sustainably, it’s our job to make these types of products visible and accessible. Pet retailers must start thinking like the new pet owner – passionate about sustainability and protecting our planet. Dog poop bags are just a starting point. Pet owners are asking questions, like where’s that cat food sourced from? Where can I find a ceramic or bamboo feeding bowl? Or, who sells responsibly sourced chew toys? A ‘win-win’ for pet retailers If you don’t already do so, we highly recommend adding eco-friendly pet products to your next stock list. Above all else, stocking these products says and does a lot for your business. They will only improve your customer loyalty, attract new ones, increase sales and showcase that you’re doing your bit for the environment. Byline by Jacob Butler content manager for Beco Pets