Mars Petcare UK has developed a range of products aimed at driving sales in local convenience stores.
The pet food giant wants to take advantage of increased footfall in these outlets with its ‘Dream Sixteen’ initiative. It follows research that showed 55% of pet owners had failed to purchase in the convenience channel due to lack of choice.
Alex Smith, convenience channel director at Mars Petcare UK, said: “This is a selection of must-stock products from our well-loved brands – Whiskas, Pedigree, Sheba, Cesar, Dreamies and Catsan – which we have specifically selected to drive sales success for our convenience customers.
“We are set to inspire retailers with ‘Dream Sixteen’ and show them the opportunity the pet care category represents – we have big plans for the year ahead and look forward to supporting the channel.”
He added: “After a challenging year for many, coupled with a marked increase in pet ownership as a result of more time being spent at home, we recognise that shopper habits and priorities have changed. Reacting to this, we’re adapting our range and recommendations accordingly.”
According to Mars Petcare data, convenience retailers have seen sales of petfood grow by 3.1% over the past 12-month period.
The ‘Dream Sixteen’ is reported to include three new price-marked packs – Pedigree Pouches 12-pack, Cesar Trays 8-pack and Sheba Pouches 12-pack.
