Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in pet care but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Charles Ng, owner of Bark & Meow Pet Supplies, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Bark & Meow Pet Supplies in Toronto is a boutique pet food and pet supplies store, providing access to high-quality foods, treats, and other pet supplies. We are Toronto's only pet store with a large variety of plant-based/vegan food and treats for dogs and cats. Our customers are discerning pet parents who prefer a good quality product for their companion animals. They are looking for all-natural alternatives, organic options, vegan options, but they are also looking for eco-friendly items, sustainable sources, locally made goods, cruelty-free products, zero waste options. The BMPS is always looking for products that fit these ideals, bringing these types of pet supplies to a single independently owned and operated retail store.
Tell us about yourself
At 50 years of age, being employed in the corporate world wasn't satisfying or rewarding enough for me. With so many years left, I knew that I could either continue being on the status quo or take a risk and look for something that sustained my lifestyle while alleviating the mental stresses of my former professional life. When I happened upon the opportunity to take over a pet store, I saw what could be improved and decided to just go for it. Offering plant-based/vegan options was a number one goal at the time, which has now expanded to include other items that care for mother earth in different ways. Also, seeing how providing access to good quality products does to my community's dogs, cats, and other small animals is so rewarding in itself. I love having a dog refusing to move from my store in the morning, waiting for me to show up so they can go to their favourite store.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I haven't reached my biggest accomplishment yet, which is to open Canada's first all-vegan pet store, but the reputation I have built with Bark & Meow Pet Supplies is a pretty big accomplishment in itself. I have great reviews great customers who refer new customers to our shop. I have great relationships with my suppliers, who understand the kind of pet store I am establishing. And over time, they, in turn, are also seeking these types of products to supply my store and others. To me, that is a big accomplishment too!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being responsible for the physical space that is my retail store. I mean, having to keep the store as spotless as possible all the time. Keeping my products well organized, located in sensible places (IE: boots and socks and paw wax in the same space, etc.), creating a shopping environment that feels relaxed and comfortable space for the shoppers. The seemingly small things that make a huge difference pile up to a daily task to maintain.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Make sure you have an online presence and keep it fresh, interesting, and appealing to your target audience.
- Always keep your cool regardless of the situation and have a smile on your face. How you handle difficult human cases can make a difference between getting a referral or getting talked about badly in your community. Word of mouth is still everything, even with the online world active in your corner.
- If you are in retail like me, know your products inside and out. There's nothing worse than not being about to provide a good recommendation or suggestion of a product on your own shelves. And be sure your staff knows your products just as well if possible.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Know your competition and try your best to stand out so you can be noticed among all the other similar businesses like yours, particularly online.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.barkmeow.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/712barkmeow/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkmeowpet/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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