The UK pet market is huge and growing. In 2020, UK residents spent £7.6 billion on pet products and services. This figure has risen steadily since 2015, when spending was £5.3 billion.
There are around 34 million pets in the UK. 12.5 million of these are dogs, making them the most popular pet. In 2021, 9% of pet owners had acquired a pet in the previous 15 months. The demand for puppies rose 104% between 2020 and 2021.
Pet Food and Veterinary Services
Pet food is central to the UK pet market and worth billions of pounds. In 2021 the pet food market alone was worth £3.1 billion. The veterinary market amounted to £2.1 billion the same year. Pet food takes the largest share of spending on pets.
Emerging Trends and Technology
Technology for pets is a growing part of the market. Products like automated feeders, fitness monitors, GPS trackers and interactive toys are increasingly popular. More developments in this area are expected.
Alongside food and veterinary care, accessories are popular purchases. Clothing, jewellery and pet-friendly household products are growth areas. Trading used pet products is also rising.