Pets at Home maintains steady half-year growth

Pets at Home, the pet supplies retailer headquartered in Cheshire, saw steady profit and revenue growth in the 28 weeks to October 8.

The firm’s pre-tax profit hit £40.9m, an increase of around 1.2% against last year’s £40.4m figure. Total revenues, meanwhile, saw a year-on-year rise of 6%, growing from £381.5m to £404.5m.

The half-year period saw the retailer drive forward with its expansion plans, launching six new Pets at Home stores to bring its UK-wide network to 405. Further, the firm launched two new locations in its Barkers brand, 15 vet practices and 10 additional grooming salons.

CEO Nick Wood said: “Our core strategic drivers remain strong and I am pleased with the progress we have made in the first half of the year.

“Pet services have again grown significantly, benefiting from sustained organic growth in both our vet and grooming businesses, together with encouraging results from the acquisition of our first specialist referral hospital.”

He added: “In merchandise we continue to lead the market and grow our share in Advanced Nutrition foods.”

Elsewhere, Pets at Home saw like-for-like revenue growth of 1% in merchandise and 10.5% in services.

The Wilmslow-based firm also saw its digital presence strengthen, with online sales revenue during the 28 weeks accounting for 45% of the total, compared to 23% at the same point last year.