Pets at Home is reporting a 9% year-on-year increase in sales in its latest third quarter trading statement.
The figures, covering the 12-week period to January 5, 2023, saw total group revenue up 8.8% to £347.5m, with group like-for-like revenue up by 8.3%. Retail revenue increased by 8.0% (7.6% like-for-like), including a record trading day of over £8m, with all categories in growth, according to the company. Vet group revenue increased by 18.1% (18% like-for-like).
Sign-ups to the group’s Puppy and Kitten Club continued at an average of more than 23,000 per week – three times higher than before the pandemic – while new client registrations across its veterinary general practices averaged 8,000 per week. The number of active members of the company’s VIP loyalty scheme increased 8% YoY to 7.6 million, while the number of subscription plans grew 9% year-on-year to 1.6m, and now generates over £135m in annualised revenue.
Chief executive Lyssa McGowan said: “We delivered a really pleasing Q3 with acceleration in sales momentum across the platform. Importantly, the quality of our growth remains strong as we continue to grow volumes and attract new consumers through offering compelling value and service, in what remains a challenging inflationary environment.
“It was particularly pleasing to see our accessories category return to growth, supported by the strong performance in our Christmas range, demonstrating that consumers still want to treat their beloved pets in these challenging times.
“Creating a better world for pets and the people that love them lies at the heart of our strategy, and I am incredibly proud that our annual Christmas fundraiser, Santa Paws, raised an incredible £2.1m for charities.”
At the same time, McGowan announced the appointment of Kathryn Imrie as the retailer’s new chief consumer officer.
Pets at Home Group Plc operates 457 stores.
