Ollie Bongo’s Pet Essentials is fast becoming a blossoming Pet ‘empire’. Since opening their first store in Faversham three years ago, entrepreneurs Kevin and Sharon Moon have begun a rapid expansion of their brand. Over the course of the last year, they have opened a second store, this one based in Herne Bay; a canine “crèche” in Whitstable and will soon be opening a pet groomers in Herne Bay.
Kevin and Sharon discussed how they have managed to differentiate Ollie Bongo’s Pet Essentials in an extremely competitive marketplace. “We face a lot of competition from large chain stores, supermarkets and online stores. We go out of our way to ensure that we stock items that others don't sell and also make sure we can offer a better customer service, including free nutritional advice and free delivery.”
With customer service being such an integral part of separating their business from much larger competitors, Kevin and Sharon place a huge emphasis on maintaining a happy working atmosphere. They provide courses on pet nutrition for staff, as knowledge of nutrition is invaluable for promoting healthy eating for pets.
Kevin and Sharon commented the journey that the business has undertaken over the course of the last three years: “We took over the shop as an indoor market stall with budget goods and have turned our shop into a boutique haven for pet lovers. We’ve also diversified with the opening of the ‘canine crèche’ and the pet groomers that will be opening soon. Throughout all of it we have been absolutely committed to maintaining the rigorous standards that we have set ourselves.”
Finally, Kevin and Sharon spoke about why they felt that his business deserved to be recognised at the Swale Business Awards: “When it comes to customer service I really do not feel that we have any real competition. Our staff are knowledgeable, we offer free delivery and can source practically anything pet related and deliver it direct to your door.
Ollie Bongo's Pet Essentials
11 Market Place
Faversham
ME13 7AG
01795 530222
www.olliebongo.com