The pet care industry in the UK is booming — and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. From nutritious foods and grooming solutions to toys, collars and beds, demand for quality pet care products is higher than ever. For garden retailers looking to diversify their offering, this retail trend presents a timely and profitable opportunity. 

Incorporating pet ranges into garden centres not only broadens appeal but also creates repeat custom and deepens community ties. With the right pet care suppliers and smart product selection, your retail space can become a destination for everything green-fingered and four-pawed. 

 

 

The State of the UK Pet Care Industry

The UK’s pet population is estimated at over 34 million, including dogs, cats, small mammals, birds and exotic animals. Following the pandemic-era pet boom, many households are now fully integrated with their furry companions, and consumer spending reflects that shift. 

According to IMARC the market for pet care products—from food and hygiene items to fashion and accessories— is set to see a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.42% during 2025-2033. Garden centres are well-positioned to tap into this industry retail trend, given their natural alignment with lifestyle, outdoor living and home-based wellness. 

In particular, there is growing interest in premium, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing pet accessories wholesale UK suppliers can offer. Shoppers want items that fit their lifestyle and values—whether it’s an eco-friendly dog toy or a biodegradable litter tray.

 

 

Pet Care Products: What Customers Are Looking For

To stand out in the expanding pet care industry, it’s crucial to offer products that are both practical and emotionally resonant. Pet owners are emotionally invested in their animals, and the retail experience must reflect that passion. 

 

Key product categories that perform well include: 

• Leads, harnesses and collars: Especially those that are adjustable, durable, and come in stylish or seasonal patterns. 

• Pet beds and carriers: Particularly designs that are attractive enough to complement home décor. 

• Toys and enrichment items: Think puzzle feeders, chew toys and interactive gadgets that cater to pet wellbeing. 

• Grooming and hygiene products: Including brushes, shampoos and pet-safe cleaning sprays. 

• Outdoor essentials: From dog waste bag holders to tick repellents—items that align perfectly with the garden lifestyle. 

 

Modern pet owners are looking for a blend of function, form and sustainability. Eco-conscious consumers are actively seeking bamboo bowls, recycled toys and packaging-free grooming kits. Garden retailers already serving a green-minded clientele are uniquely suited to meet this demand.

 

 

Sourcing From Pet Accessories Wholesale UK Suppliers

One of the biggest advantages for garden centres is the availability of diverse pet accessories wholesale UK options. Whether you're stocking for cats, dogs, or even backyard chickens, UK-based distributors offer quick turnaround, low shipping costs, and flexibility on order sizes. 

Building relationships with reputable pet care suppliers ensures you’re able to keep your stock fresh, seasonal, and in line with current trends. Many wholesalers offer tailored product ranges designed specifically for garden centres, helping you integrate seamlessly with your existing retail layout. 

 

Look for suppliers that: 

• Provide attractive merchandising options 

• Offer point-of-sale materials and staff training 

• Use recyclable or minimal packaging 

• Are open to low minimum order quantities (MOQs) to help you test ranges 

• Support British-made or ethically-sourced goods 

 

Forming partnerships with trusted UK-based pet care suppliers not only boosts your credibility but also simplifies logistics, allowing you to react faster to changing customer preferences. 

 

A Natural Fit: Pets and the Garden Retail Environment  Why is the garden centre such a good home for pet products?  Firstly, the demographics align. Garden retailers already attract homeowners, families, and retirees—groups more likely to own pets and be willing to invest in their care. More than a utilitarian purchase, pet items evoke emotion and encourage impulse buying. A customer picking up a new potted herb might easily be tempted by a novelty dog toy or a scented pet shampoo.  Secondly, garden centres offer space and ambience. Unlike crowded high streets or supermarkets, these retail environments are relaxed, exploratory and often pet-friendly. Pet owners enjoy browsing with their animals, creating an opportunity to trial products or engage in live demos—be it dog grooming or pet treat tasting sessions.  Additionally, the crossover potential is immense. Why not create bundles that combine garden and pet themes—such as ‘outdoor playtime kits’ featuring pet-safe plants, biodegradable poo bags and natural pest repellents?

 

 

 

The Rise of Experiential Retail in Pet Care

In the current retail climate, experience matters. Consumers are increasingly drawn to stores that offer engagement, education and emotion—not just transactions. 

 

For the pet care industry, this means hosting events like: 

• Pet-friendly gardening workshops (e.g., how to create a pet-safe garden) 

• Seasonal pet photoshoots (Valentine’s Day, Christmas, etc.) 

• Puppy socialisation mornings or rescue dog meet-and-greets 

• DIY toy-making or treat-baking classes 

 

These experiences position your garden centre as a community hub, not just a shop—and customers will remember and reward that. 

Moreover, digital integration can enhance the in-store experience. QR codes leading to grooming tips or online ordering for bulky pet items extend the shopping journey and make your pet range feel modern and responsive. 

 

 

Merchandising Matters

How you present your pet care products can dramatically influence sales. Create clear zones within your store that allow for cross-merchandising—placing a dog cooling mat next to outdoor seating, for instance, or displaying catnip plants near the herb section. 

Use signage that educates and inspires. Labels like “Eco-Friendly”, “Made in the UK”, or “Vet Approved” catch the eye and provide quick reassurance. Highlight seasonal themes—summer hydration, winter warmth, or tick protection—to prompt purchases. 

If space allows, consider creating a dedicated pet care zone complete with a demonstration area, product samples, or even a water bowl and treat station. Customers will appreciate the hospitality—and so will their pets. 

 

 

Trends to Watch in the Pet Accessories Space

To stay competitive, garden retailers should keep an eye on emerging trends in pet accessories wholesale UK markets: 

 

• Health and wellness: Pet supplements, CBD treats, and fitness trackers are entering the mainstream. 

• Smart accessories: GPS collars, automatic feeders and pet cameras cater to tech-savvy owners. 

• Pet fashion: From raincoats to bandanas, pet clothing remains a fun, growing niche. 

• Sustainable swaps: Compostable poo bags, upcycled toy stuffing and hemp collars are increasingly popular. 

• Small pet pampering: Guinea pigs, rabbits and birds are seeing a rise in premium offerings too—don't overlook this market. 

 

Being first to stock a trending item can set your business apart and earn lasting loyalty. 

 

 

Collaborating with Local Brands and Charities 

One way to build authenticity is to stock products from local artisans or small-batch pet brands. Not only does this support local enterprise, but it also resonates with customers looking for unique, meaningful purchases. 

Additionally, consider teaming up with animal charities or rescue centres. Fundraising weekends, adoption events, or donation drives can generate footfall and goodwill. Promoting a “shop and support” ethos—where a portion of pet accessory sales goes to a local shelter—is a win-win. 

 

 

 

 

The pet care industry is vibrant, evolving and deeply rooted in consumer emotion. For garden retailers, it represents a strategic opportunity to diversify offerings, increase footfall, and build customer loyalty. 

With access to quality pet care suppliers and an eye for emerging retail trends 2025, garden centres can offer much more than plants and planters—they can become the go-to for all things pets. 

From pet care products and stylish accessories to wellness items and seasonal treats, there's a world of opportunity ready to be explored. By sourcing smartly through pet accessories wholesale UK providers and focusing on curation, experience and community, you’ll be perfectly placed to grow alongside the nation's beloved pets. 

After all, where there’s a wagging tail or a purring kitten, there’s a devoted customer looking for the best. 

 

 

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