Guest guest Posted April 1, 2005 Report Share Posted April 1, 2005 Friday, April 01, 2005 - The Star Majority in favour of keeping fish as pets By VIVIENNE PAL The popularity of exotic pets may be on the rise, but “conventional” pets are here to stay. Jusco Home Centre Pet House manager Daniel Lee and Pusat Haiwan Atlantis Safari Sdn Bhd owner Patrick Lee cite fish as the most popular pet followed by dogs, cats, birds and others. “There will always be people who want fish, cats and dogs. These animals will always be popular and there will always be a demand for them,” said Daniel, whose family has been in the pet business for many years; they now own another pet store in Damansara Uptown. While the increasing interest in pets (particularly in exotic pets) is in direct proportion with the growing number of pet stores in the Klang Valley, it is not the main denominator. Money plays a part, too. “It's easy money in the pet business. Frankly, the profit is there; pet stores can easily generate a profit margin of 150% - 200% a month,” said Patrick. He has been in the business for the last four years. However, as easy as it is to set up a pet store, it is just as easy for the business to fold. “It’s very competitive. Most people jump onto the bandwagon with only profit in mind. They don't realise that it is a tough job and without proper research into the background of the business, the store will eventually close down. “The big boys survive because they know their stuff. They know that it takes more than just the initial capital to keep the business going,” he added. Daniel agrees: “Pet stores may be mushrooming in the Klang Valley at a quick rate, but there are just as many pet stores closing shop just as quickly. The competition is stiff.” Both agree that knowledge and good service is the key to business survival. “Pet store staff should arm themselves with knowledge of the animals they sell because customers look to them for advice. It’s not about dollars and cents alone. It’s a tough job. Those who jump into the business because it is easy money will lose out in the long run,” said Daniel. An important fact that pet stores should realise is this: customers are not about to be taken for a ride. Stores that provide solutions to their customers are the ones that last. _______________ Find love online with MSN Personals. http://match.msn.com.my/match/mt.cfm?pg=channel Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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