Kölle Zoo gets off to a successful start in Belgium

Kölle Zoo, the German chain of pet experience stores, successfully launched its first branch in Belgium on 14 November. The chain offers Belgian pet lovers its usual wide range of pet products across 800 m² of retail space, complemented by spacious live animal enclosures and highlights such as a rodent castle, a BARF shop and a donation wall.

The new branch in St. Vith in eastern Belgium is managed by franchise partner Sebastian Haep, founder of the former Zoobel market. ‘I grew up in an animal-loving entrepreneurial family and always wanted to run a pet shop,’ explained Haep. ‘With Kölle Zoo, I can combine my passion for animals with a proven concept, high quality and the best advice. My team and I have been eagerly awaiting the opening day and are proud of Kölle Zoo No. 1 in Belgium.’

Kölle Zoo sees Belgium as an ideal market for its franchise concept: ‘Belgian customers have very similar expectations and needs to German customers, which makes the market particularly attractive for us,’ says Kölle Zoo Managing Director Ramin Danaei. It became clear in the first few days that the Kölle Zoo concept was well received: customers praised the variety of products, the appealing presentation and the opportunity to experience the animals on offer up close. "Our concept is replicable and transferable to other locations. We are already planning further locations in the Benelux region in order to offer animal lovers there a first-class range and a special shopping experience," Danaei continued.

The new branch in St. Vith combines high-quality product ranges, expert advice and an experiential shopping experience, and is a prime example of Kölle Zoo's strategy of achieving future growth through franchise partnerships.