Chiswick Pets Likely to Close at the End of Year
Staff say business never fully recovered after the pandemic
Chiswick Pets on Devonshire Road
September 20, 2024
One of W4’s longest standing independent businesses has confirmed it is planning to close at the end of the year.
Chiswick Pets, which is based on Devonshire Road, has been operating in the area for over three decades. It is to continue trading through to Christmas but doesn’t expect to reopen after the holidays.
Staff at the shop said that the decision had been taking due to the failure of turnover to recover after the pandemic. Business conditions were described as ‘terrible’ which was primarily put down to former customers switching to online purchases.
Although pet ownership increased during lockdown, this did not translate into a boost in sales. All pet product retailers are facing intense competition from online platforms like Amazon and Chewy, as well as dedicated UK-based e-commerce sites such as Zooplus.
As well as new pet stores in Chiswick, Pets At Home, a national chain, has expanded its operation in Brentford and added a new store on Gunnersbury Avenue and Pets’ Corner has opened in Gunnersbury Lane in Acton. However, Chiswick Pets doesn’t believe this has had a major impact and say that is likely that these businesses will also be struggling.
The news will come as a blow to the remaining loyal and supportive customer base who valued the personal service provided at the store. As well as a wide range of pet products, boarding and grooming services were offered. The groomers working at the back of the premises are expected to continue to operate at a new location when the store shuts.
The closure does not represent an opportunity for retirement for store owners Ray and Eileen Mackey who have young children.
Chiswick Pets is based at 32-34 Devonshire Road and is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 4pm.
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