Huntley Manhertz, Jr., PhDDr. Huntley Manhertz, Jr., is a consumer product goods market researcher and an independent writer. He can be reached at Tel: +1.813.310.0237, E-mail: [email protected].From the AuthorNutritionMarket Watch: All I want for Christmas is a treatOne of the most popular types of pet gifts is treats. As many as 90% of US dogs receive treats, followed by 82% of birds, 79% of small animals and 69% of cats. On average, dog owners spend US$66 per year on treats.ProductionHow is the US market trending?This year we have experienced many positive and not so positive social and economic factors that have impacted the US petfood marketProductionIs credit crunch hitting petfood sales?To find out if this financial meltdown is affecting the petfood sector, my market research firm asked pet owners if credit problems are impacting their purchasing decisions.Safety & QualityCrisis drives growth in alternativesA significant volume and dollar share opportunity now exists as a result of the recall crisisSafety & QualityChina: low cost vs. inadequate qualityThe rise of emerging markets like China provides what multinational manufacturers have been seeking to grow and become more competitiveProductionStore brands rebrandStore brands have come a long way in their packaging and branding strategiesProductionMarket Watch: Your customers are loyal to valueThis month I'll share an online survey of your customersNutritionNatural and organic niche markets on the riseFoods that have been grown without additives, hormones, pesticides or herbicides have piqued interest among consumersPet Food MarketMarket Watch: What are your customers saying about you?Understanding your customers and the dynamics of the marketplace can help you control the direction of your businessPet Food MarketMarket Watch: Second time aroundPetco purchased and taken private (again)Pet Food MarketMarket Watch: Brand + private label = Mars, Inc.A global positioning strategy for the futureNutritionMarket Watch: Brick and mortar vs. Internet store dynamicsUp, up and away, specialty stores sales increased in the first six months of 2006 compared to the same 2005 period.Page 1 of 2Next Page
