If you’ve ever found yourself chatting with other dog owners in the park, or spoiling your cat with more toys than it probably needs, you already know: pets aren’t just animals, they’re family. That’s why the pet industry has become one of the most resilient corners of retail, with U.S. households spending more than $151 billion in 2024, and that number keeps growing because 70% of families now own at least one pet. Even when the economy slows, people rarely cut back on kibble, grooming, or vet visits.
This is the world that Pet Supplies Plus has been leading for decades. With more than 735 stores nationwide, a mix of trusted national brands and exclusive private-label products, plus loyal customers who treat the local store as their neighborhood hub, it’s easy to see why the brand has been ranked the #1 pet store franchise by Entrepreneur for over 10 years straight.
But loving pets and loving the business are two different things. If you’re thinking about turning that passion into ownership, you’ll want to understand the investment, the potential rewards, and the risks that come with running a high-volume retail operation.
Pet Supplies Plus opened its first store in 1987 with a simple but powerful idea: give pet owners the convenience of a big-box store without losing the friendliness of a neighborhood shop. That “best of both worlds” approach clicked with customers, and by 1991 the brand had launched its franchise program. Today, the company (operating as PSP Franchising, LLC out of Livonia, Michigan) has grown to more than 735 locations nationwide. In 2021, it was acquired by Franchise Group, Inc., the same group that owns The Vitamin Shoppe and American Freight, giving it even more resources to expand.
So, what makes Pet Supplies Plus stand out in a crowded pet market?
Pet Supplies Plus has positioned itself as the neighborhood hub for pet lovers, balancing convenience with community.
The short answer is yes. The longer answer is that you’ll need both the financial footing and the commitment to run a sizable retail operation. This isn’t the kind of franchise you run on autopilot.
Here’s what it takes (2025 requirements):
But money isn’t the only qualifier. The franchisor is looking for owners who are motivated to manage a multi-million-dollar store, plugged into their communities, and, ideally, pet lovers themselves. You can run the business directly or hire a manager, but true absentee ownership isn’t encouraged.
If you’re financially solid and energized by the idea of building a community-focused business, you will likely be a strong candidate.
Launching a Pet Supplies Plus store is a major investment, but compared to creating your own brand from scratch, it comes with a big advantage: you’re buying into proven systems, national buying power, and a loyal customer base that already recognizes the name.
Estimated initial investment (2025 FDD):
Where does that money go?
For context: On the higher end of that range — a $1.9M build — you’ll need about $380K in cash upfront (20%) to qualify for financing your franchise.
What this means for you: Yes, the startup costs are hefty, but the low royalty rate helps preserve margins once you’re operational, which is an edge that pays off as your sales grow.
Pet retail is one of the few industries that blends non-negotiable essentials (food, litter, flea prevention) with fun discretionary purchases (toys, treats, grooming). That mix translates into steady foot traffic and bigger basket sizes.
The economics can be attractive, but success hinges on smart cost control and leveraging services plus proprietary brands to maximize margin.
No franchise is risk-free, but PSP’s track record is stronger than most. Over the last three years, the system’s failure rate has been around 3%, compared to a broader industry average of 4%.
Of course, that doesn’t guarantee every store thrives, factors like site selection, management quality, and local competition matter, but it does highlight the relative stability of the brand.
Entrepreneurs are drawn to this brand for a mix of financial and emotional reasons:
One of the advantages of partnering with Pet Supplies Plus is that you’re not thrown into a market where you’ll be fighting another PSP down the street. Once your store location is approved, you’re granted an exclusive territory.
That exclusivity protects your investment. Your “neighborhood pet store” truly becomes your neighborhood pet store without corporate planting another right next door.
Running a multi-million-dollar retail operation might seem overwhelming at first glance, but PSP’s support structure is designed to shorten the learning curve and back you up long after your doors open.
Here’s what franchise owners get:
PSP mainly wants franchisees to focus on building relationships in their community while leaning on corporate systems to simplify the operational heavy lifting.
The road to ownership is structured, but it’s also designed to give you plenty of chances to decide if this franchise is truly the right fit. Here’s how it works:
The process isn’t overnight — expect months of preparation — but it’s thorough for a reason. Both you and the franchisor want confidence that you’re ready to run a high-volume, community-driven business.
Opening a Pet Supplies Plus franchise takes serious capital, but financing doesn’t have to be the hardest part of the journey. Whether you’re building a $600K neighborhood shop or a $1.9M flagship location, the right funding structure will make or break your early cash flow.
This is where Swoop steps in. Our platform lets you compare financing options side by side — from SBA loans to commercial real estate financing to working capital facilities — so you’re not stuck chasing down banks one by one. With expert guidance and a network of lenders who understand franchise models, Swoop helps you secure terms that fit your growth plans.
Check available business loans today and see how Swoop can help you bring your Pet Supplies Plus franchise from blueprint to grand opening.
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Pedja was amazing. Super supportive, understanding of our needs and wasn't pushy at all. We've been going back and forth with Swoop for over a year inquiring about different financing options and they were patient until we were ready!
F45 Multi-studio owner
Written by
Ashlyn is a personal finance writer with experience in business and consumer taxes, retirement, and financial services to name a few. She has been published in USA Today, Kiplinger and Investopedia.
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