In the North Balkans

Pet owning in the present sense was almost non-existent in Croatia before 1995. The few dogs and cats kept there were fed on scraps from the table, a few hobbyists took an interest in fish and reptiles, and breeders of birds and small animals traded their specimens in local markets.
It was only with the introduction of a free market economy after 1995, when the country opened up to the west and the prosperity of the population increased, that the pet supplies sector began to develop. The size of the pet market is estimated by sector experts at € 70 to 80 mio. Around 4.3 mio people live in Croatia, a quarter of whom live in the capital Zagreb and in the region immediately surrounding it.
Roughly 350 000 dogs are registered; the number of cats is estimated to be triple the figure for dogs. About a third of the dog population is still fed on table scraps, especially in rural areas. This offers potential that all market players are trying to secure for themselves.
Speciality retailers
In spite of the comparatively small market, five pet store chains with a total of 40 outlets are competing with approximately 150 independent pet product dealers for the favour of pet owners.
The wholesale company Zoo Hobby has 22 stores of its own scattered across Croatia and trading under the name Zoo City. Around 80 people are employed in the stores, along with another 27 in the head office and warehouse. Brands distributed exclusively by the wholesale company include Hill's, Interquell and Tetra. Zoo Hobby attracted attention just recently when it opened a store in one of the most exclusive quarters of Zagreb for luxury articles produced by German manufacturer Hunter.
Then there is the Pet Centar store chain, which currently operates seven outlets. Its general manager refuses to give interviews to the press, but those who know the sector all report that Pet Centar is a serious player that has set standards with regard to the depth of the range, cleanliness and professionalism. Three other stores are located in Serbia and two in Romania. Imported brands include Witte-Molen, Dr.Clauders, Karlie-Flamingo and Brit.
Three other players are Zoo Hop with six stores, Zoo Wili with six stores and Zverinjak with two outlets, some based in shopping malls, with retail areas ranging from 100 to 250 m2.