What to expect from IndiePet at SuperZoo 2023

IndiePet is gearing up for another strong presence at this year’s SuperZoo trade show with a focus on engagement. IndiePet will feature programs, insights, committees, networking, member deals, and our first national consumer awareness effort, Neighborhood Pet Store Day – A day to celebrate independent pet retailers – throughout the week of SuperZoo.

As in past years, IndiePet will hold their annual update meeting and reception the day before show opening on Tuesday, August 15, 3pm to 5pm in Pacific Room F. Members and non-members are invited to RSVP and attend to learn more about current IndiePet programs including a game-changing Product Information Management tool, MAP tracking, IndiePet’s Education platform, Retailer Review Center, and Neighborhood Pet Store Day.  Current members can learn how to join committees, the advisory panel, or the board. A short presentation will be followed by unstructured time to socialize and network while enjoying beverages and snacks. If you are a retailer who attended SuperZoo University courses or an exhibitor who spent the day constructing your booth, this is a great way to end your pre-show experience.

The success of last year’s IndiePet retail member-only breakfast inspired a larger venue for this year’s event. The breakfast will take place in South Pacific Room J on Thursday, August 17, 8am-9:30am.  Michael Johnson of BSM Partners (formerly of FINN CADY) will return to present updated consumer insights addressing the questions: What might the future look like and how can independent pet stores resonate and win with consumers in this evolving marketplace? How do we connect with customers to bring more traffic into our stores?  Two attendees from any IndiePet retail member organization may attend. There is no charge for this event, but preregistration is required.


If you’re reading this and are not an IndiePet member, but want to enjoy the great member-only activities and benefits offered by IndiePet, we invite you to join today!


During the show you will find IndiePet at booth #3308 where staff and board members (representing nine retail businesses of varying sizes) will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about IndiePet membership, programs, and benefits and about Neighborhood Pet Store Day. At the booth will be some fun swag for Neighborhood Pet Store Day, shareable brochures about IndiePet and IndiePet’s Associate Member Directory to help retail members find exhibiting associate members including those who are offering member-only specials, sponsoring Neighborhood Pet Store Day, and sponsoring IndiePet events.

IndiePet event sponsors make it possible for IndiePet to offer these events without charge to retailers. Be sure thank our sponsoring associate members.

This year, both exhibiting and non-exhibiting associate members are providing IndiePet member-only specials such as free products to try (Washbar), discounted services (HRG) and more. Be sure to check them out.

Associate members sponsoring Neighborhood Pet Store Day will be easy to find as they will have bold Neighborhood Pet Store Day signs displayed at their booths. Participation in Neighborhood Pet Store Day is open to all independent pet retailers including non-IndiePet members. It will be a fun and supported way to get the word out about the important role independent pet retailers play in the market, in their communities and for their customers. Visit any booth displaying the sign and ask how you can get involved. Supporting manufacturers will have fun ideas and offers to help you and your customers celebrate the day. Visit Neighborhood Pet Store Day to RSVP your intention to participate, encourage your customers to do the same and make use of the free brand toolkit and marketing assets to share the word.

Hope to see you at SuperZoo!

Todd Dittman, Executive Director

Todd Dittman’s career leading retail businesses and trade associations that provide inspiration and resources to enhance the customer experience has been long and successful. He led the marketing team for brands like Borden, Wendy's International, and Arby's Restaurant Group before joining IndiePet in their mission to empower the independent pet retailer community of North America.

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10 Ways to Celebrate Neighborhood Pet Store Day in Your Retail Store

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How Members Set Their Stores Apart