PetSmart, the nation’s largest pet supply retailer, is scheduled to close its only location in San Francisco on July 19. The closure of the Geary Boulevard store marks a significant shift for local residents who utilized the site for a variety of specialized animal care needs.
In an email explaining the decision to KTVU FOX 2, a company representative detailed the “evolving” shopping habits and long-term viability factors leading to the exit.
“As more customers choose online ordering, autoship and same-day delivery, we’re continuing to adapt how we serve pet parents across the Bay Area,” the company stated.
For many locals, the store was more than a retail outlet, offering dog and cat boarding, doggie day camp, and grooming services. While retail shopping continues until next week, many of these amenities have already been marked as temporarily closed on the company’s website, as reported by SFGATE.
The retailer expressed a desire to maintain its relationship with San Francisco customers through other channels, citing a commitment to the region.
“We remain committed to serving pet parents throughout San Francisco, who will continue to have access to nearby PetSmart locations, including our Daly City store, as well as online shopping with convenient delivery options,” wrote PetSmart in a statement provided to SFGATE.
To support the transition, the company is expanding fulfillment capabilities at its Daly City location. Employees at the closing Geary Boulevard site will be offered transitional resources and opportunities to relocate to other Bay Area stores, according to KTVU FOX 2.
Founded in 1986 and currently owned by the private equity firm BC Partners, PetSmart operates more than 1,650 locations across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.