It’s been six weeks since social distancing was implemented in the U.S. and brought foot traffic in brick and mortar pet stores to a grinding halt.
While pet retailers are allowed to keep their doors open as essential businesses, maintaining customer engagement during the pandemic has been challenging. Here are a few creative ways retailers are staying connected with pet parents through social media.
Connecting with Brands
ASC Brand Partner Green Coast Pet and retailer Pets Plus in California recently joined forces to host an Instagram live event on CBD. Pet parents were able to ask questions about CBD and its uses and learn more about specific Green Coast Pet products in real-time.
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Drive-Thru Events
Florida-based retailer DOGperfect hosted an Easter Drive-Thru event where pet parents received a free goodie bag of vendor samples for their pups without leaving the car. The store promoted its event through Facebook and Instagram pages and reported that 500 customers participated.
Virtual Spirit Week
All Pets Considered in Greensboro, NC launched a virtual spirit week on their social media pages to drum up engagement among customers. Each day, pet parents dressed pets according to the day’s theme and uploaded a photo of their furry friend to All Pets Considered’s social media pages for a chance to win prizes.
Feeding Pets in Need
Some retailers are focusing on helping their communities by feeding pets in need with a Community Pet Pantry. Houston retailer Flying M Feed & Pet Grocery set up an outdoor pantry where pet parents can donate or take pet food at no cost.
Virtual Yappy Hour
What’s Up Dog in Florida hosted a “Social Distancing Yappy Hour” with new ASC Brand Partner Pet Releaf to talk about man’s best friend – dogs! Through meeting software Zoom, customers asked questions, participated in dog-themed trivia, and learned about pet products. All attendees were given a discount code to use on Pet Releaf products.
How are you staying connected with your customers? Follow us on Facebook and let us know.
