Latest news with #DeanKippenberger
Scoop
2 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Petdirect Reveals New Zealand's Fast-Growing Love Affair With Pet Tech
Press Release – Petdirect Auckland, NZ, 10 June 2025 Petdirect reports surge in pet tech as owners seek smarter ways to stay connected with their pets Golden retrievers might not know what an AI-powered smart feeder is, but their humans certainly do. Across Aotearoa, pet parents are embracing smart technology, from automated feeders with built-in cameras to interactive robot companions and GPS trackers, all designed to help them stay connected with their pets even when they are not at home. 'I recently tested the PETKIT Yumshare Smart Feeder with Camera so I could keep an eye on my dog and feed her when I'm not home,' says Taylor Jones, Head of Marketing & Customer at Petdirect. 'What I didn't expect was a total routine reset. Now my lunch breaks are spent flinging treats to my golden retriever from the office and giving a full commentary on her every move—like a baby monitor. I'm a new and admittedly anxious pet parent, and this thing has become my new obsession.' It turns out, she's not alone. Recent insights from the Petdirect Pet Census 2024 reveal the growing emotional and financial investment Kiwi pet parents are making: 66% celebrate their pet's birthday, rising to 84% among Gen Z — a generation redefining modern pet parenting 84% of pet owners have specific concerns about their pet's health, with 30% citing anxiety as a top issue Over one-third of respondents (37%) spend more than $2,000 annually on their pets. These figures highlight the increasing focus on personalised care, routine and emotional connection. According to research by Fortune Business Insights, the global pet tech market is projected to surpass USD $3 billion (NZD $5.1 billion) by 2027, with demand soaring for smart feeders, GPS trackers to wellness-monitoring devices. Petdirect has also observed a marked rise in customer interest across tech-enabled pet products, particularly in treat cams, interactive toys and smart feeders. 'We've seen more than 50% growth in the pet tech category over the past year, with smart water fountains and automatic feeders driving much of that demand,' says Dean Kippenberger, Head of Merchandise at Petdirect. 'Feeders are giving pet parents more freedom in their day, whether they're out running errands or working from the office. Features like built-in cameras and two-way audio help people stay connected and reassured that their pet is OK. Water fountains are also becoming a must-have, particularly for cat owners, as they encourage better hydration and support overall health.' Popular pet tech trends include: Robot companions like Enabot that let you check in on your pet and interact remotely Smart feeders that dispense meals or treats on schedule or on demand, all via app Pet cameras with HD video and two-way audio so you can monitor and talk to your pet from anywhere GPS trackers and wearable devices designed to help you keep tabs on your pet's location, activity and safety Robot litter boxes that clean themselves — taking the mess (and the smell) out of pet ownership As a proudly Kiwi-owned brand, Petdirect is leaning into this shift by curating a growing range of pet tech solutions that reflect how people want to care for their pets today. About Petdirect Petdirect is New Zealand's leading online destination for dog and cat essentials. Proudly Kiwi-owned, we help pet parents give their furry family members the best, with quality products, trusted advice and a customer care team that speaks fluent pet. Visit
Scoop
2 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Petdirect Reveals New Zealand's Fast-Growing Love Affair With Pet Tech
Press Release: Petdirect Auckland, NZ, 10 June 2025 Petdirect reports surge in pet tech as owners seek smarter ways to stay connected with their pets Golden retrievers might not know what an AI-powered smart feeder is, but their humans certainly do. Across Aotearoa, pet parents are embracing smart technology, from automated feeders with built-in cameras to interactive robot companions and GPS trackers, all designed to help them stay connected with their pets even when they are not at home. 'I recently tested the PETKIT Yumshare Smart Feeder with Camera so I could keep an eye on my dog and feed her when I'm not home,' says Taylor Jones, Head of Marketing & Customer at Petdirect. 'What I didn't expect was a total routine reset. Now my lunch breaks are spent flinging treats to my golden retriever from the office and giving a full commentary on her every move—like a baby monitor. I'm a new and admittedly anxious pet parent, and this thing has become my new obsession.' It turns out, she's not alone. Recent insights from the Petdirect Pet Census 2024 reveal the growing emotional and financial investment Kiwi pet parents are making: 66% celebrate their pet's birthday, rising to 84% among Gen Z — a generation redefining modern pet parenting 84% of pet owners have specific concerns about their pet's health, with 30% citing anxiety as a top issue Over one-third of respondents (37%) spend more than $2,000 annually on their pets. These figures highlight the increasing focus on personalised care, routine and emotional connection. According to research by Fortune Business Insights, the global pet tech market is projected to surpass USD $3 billion (NZD $5.1 billion) by 2027, with demand soaring for smart feeders, GPS trackers to wellness-monitoring devices. Petdirect has also observed a marked rise in customer interest across tech-enabled pet products, particularly in treat cams, interactive toys and smart feeders. 'We've seen more than 50% growth in the pet tech category over the past year, with smart water fountains and automatic feeders driving much of that demand,' says Dean Kippenberger, Head of Merchandise at Petdirect. 'Feeders are giving pet parents more freedom in their day, whether they're out running errands or working from the office. Features like built-in cameras and two-way audio help people stay connected and reassured that their pet is OK. Water fountains are also becoming a must-have, particularly for cat owners, as they encourage better hydration and support overall health.' Popular pet tech trends include: Robot companions like Enabot that let you check in on your pet and interact remotely Smart feeders that dispense meals or treats on schedule or on demand, all via app Pet cameras with HD video and two-way audio so you can monitor and talk to your pet from anywhere GPS trackers and wearable devices designed to help you keep tabs on your pet's location, activity and safety Robot litter boxes that clean themselves — taking the mess (and the smell) out of pet ownership As a proudly Kiwi-owned brand, Petdirect is leaning into this shift by curating a growing range of pet tech solutions that reflect how people want to care for their pets today. About Petdirect Petdirect is New Zealand's leading online destination for dog and cat essentials. Proudly Kiwi-owned, we help pet parents give their furry family members the best, with quality products, trusted advice and a customer care team that speaks fluent pet. Visit
Scoop
01-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Petdirect Secures Exclusive NZ Rights to Global Pet Brand M-PETS
Press Release – Petdirect While some M-PETS products may have trickled into the New Zealand market in the past, Petdirect now holds exclusive rights to the brand, giving Kiwi pet parents access to a growing range that has never before been locally available to New Zealanders. Auckland, New Zealand – Petdirect, New Zealand's leading Kiwi-owned pet retailer, is proud to announce the exclusive launch of M-PETS, a globally recognised brand of high-quality, design-led pet essentials. Already available in over 70 countries, M-PETS is now officially and exclusively distributed in New Zealand by Petdirect, with a curated range of over 100 everyday products for cats and dogs and more coming soon. While some M-PETS products may have trickled into the New Zealand market in the past, Petdirect now holds exclusive rights to the brand, giving Kiwi pet parents access to a growing range that has never before been locally available to New Zealanders. 'We've secured exclusive distribution of the M-Pets range in New Zealand, and we're offering a curated selection of great value, quality items, and we're planning to add more quickly.' says Dean Kippenberger, Head of Merchandise at Petdirect. The M-PETS range, now available exclusively at Petdirect, features durable and stylish beds and grooming tools in multiple sizes, high-quality toys that support stimulation and enrichment, as well as functional and aesthetically pleasing feeding, travel and hygiene products. Thoughtfully designed, every product combines quality, safety and modern aesthetics – without the premium price tag. 'Some retailers may have stocked a few M-PETS product in the past, but no one has offered the width of range and invested in stock as we have,' states Kippenberger. 'By owning the range locally, we're able to deliver better value, greater consistency and a much broader assortment than ever seen in NZ.' The launch comes as new insights from Petdirect's 2024 Pet Census highlight just how much Kiwis are investing in their pets. Over a third of pet owners report spending more than $2000 a year, and many admit it's more than they expected. Nearly four in ten say their pet costs exceed what they'd originally budgeted for, while others have adjusted their household spending to accommodate their furry family members . 'This is part of a wider strategy to rethink how Kiwis shop for their pets,' adds Kippenberger. 'We're focused on building a suite of exclusive quality brands that meet real needs – with great prices, quality and customer service. M-PETS sets the tone, and we're only getting started.' M-PETS is just the beginning. Petdirect is set to expand its portfolio of exclusive homebrands in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to offering smarter, higher-value options for New Zealand pet families. About Petdirect Petdirect is the largest New Zealand-owned pet supply store, offering an extensive range of high-quality products, expert advice, and pet medication services. Founded in 2020, Petdirect has quickly become a trusted name in pet care, dedicated to making it easy for Kiwis to provide the best for their furry friends.
Scoop
01-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Petdirect Secures Exclusive NZ Rights to Global Pet Brand M-PETS
Press Release – Petdirect Auckland, New Zealand – Petdirect, New Zealand's leading Kiwi-owned pet retailer, is proud to announce the exclusive launch of M-PETS, a globally recognised brand of high-quality, design-led pet essentials. Already available in over 70 countries, M-PETS is now officially and exclusively distributed in New Zealand by Petdirect, with a curated range of over 100 everyday products for cats and dogs and more coming soon. While some M-PETS products may have trickled into the New Zealand market in the past, Petdirect now holds exclusive rights to the brand, giving Kiwi pet parents access to a growing range that has never before been locally available to New Zealanders. 'We've secured exclusive distribution of the M-Pets range in New Zealand, and we're offering a curated selection of great value, quality items, and we're planning to add more quickly.' says Dean Kippenberger, Head of Merchandise at Petdirect. The M-PETS range, now available exclusively at Petdirect, features durable and stylish beds and grooming tools in multiple sizes, high-quality toys that support stimulation and enrichment, as well as functional and aesthetically pleasing feeding, travel and hygiene products. Thoughtfully designed, every product combines quality, safety and modern aesthetics – without the premium price tag. 'Some retailers may have stocked a few M-PETS product in the past, but no one has offered the width of range and invested in stock as we have,' states Kippenberger. 'By owning the range locally, we're able to deliver better value, greater consistency and a much broader assortment than ever seen in NZ.' The launch comes as new insights from Petdirect's 2024 Pet Census highlight just how much Kiwis are investing in their pets. Over a third of pet owners report spending more than $2000 a year, and many admit it's more than they expected. Nearly four in ten say their pet costs exceed what they'd originally budgeted for, while others have adjusted their household spending to accommodate their furry family members . 'This is part of a wider strategy to rethink how Kiwis shop for their pets,' adds Kippenberger. 'We're focused on building a suite of exclusive quality brands that meet real needs – with great prices, quality and customer service. M-PETS sets the tone, and we're only getting started.' M-PETS is just the beginning. Petdirect is set to expand its portfolio of exclusive homebrands in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to offering smarter, higher-value options for New Zealand pet families. About Petdirect Petdirect is the largest New Zealand-owned pet supply store, offering an extensive range of high-quality products, expert advice, and pet medication services. Founded in 2020, Petdirect has quickly become a trusted name in pet care, dedicated to making it easy for Kiwis to provide the best for their furry friends.
Scoop
01-05-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Petdirect Secures Exclusive NZ Rights to Global Pet Brand M-PETS
Press Release: Petdirect Auckland, New Zealand – Petdirect, New Zealand's leading Kiwi-owned pet retailer, is proud to announce the exclusive launch of M-PETS, a globally recognised brand of high-quality, design-led pet essentials. Already available in over 70 countries, M-PETS is now officially and exclusively distributed in New Zealand by Petdirect, with a curated range of over 100 everyday products for cats and dogs and more coming soon. While some M-PETS products may have trickled into the New Zealand market in the past, Petdirect now holds exclusive rights to the brand, giving Kiwi pet parents access to a growing range that has never before been locally available to New Zealanders. 'We've secured exclusive distribution of the M-Pets range in New Zealand, and we're offering a curated selection of great value, quality items, and we're planning to add more quickly.' says Dean Kippenberger, Head of Merchandise at Petdirect. The M-PETS range, now available exclusively at Petdirect, features durable and stylish beds and grooming tools in multiple sizes, high-quality toys that support stimulation and enrichment, as well as functional and aesthetically pleasing feeding, travel and hygiene products. Thoughtfully designed, every product combines quality, safety and modern aesthetics – without the premium price tag. 'Some retailers may have stocked a few M-PETS product in the past, but no one has offered the width of range and invested in stock as we have,' states Kippenberger. 'By owning the range locally, we're able to deliver better value, greater consistency and a much broader assortment than ever seen in NZ.' The launch comes as new insights from Petdirect's 2024 Pet Census highlight just how much Kiwis are investing in their pets. Over a third of pet owners report spending more than $2000 a year, and many admit it's more than they expected. Nearly four in ten say their pet costs exceed what they'd originally budgeted for, while others have adjusted their household spending to accommodate their furry family members . 'This is part of a wider strategy to rethink how Kiwis shop for their pets,' adds Kippenberger. 'We're focused on building a suite of exclusive quality brands that meet real needs – with great prices, quality and customer service. M-PETS sets the tone, and we're only getting started.' M-PETS is just the beginning. Petdirect is set to expand its portfolio of exclusive homebrands in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to offering smarter, higher-value options for New Zealand pet families. About Petdirect Petdirect is the largest New Zealand-owned pet supply store, offering an extensive range of high-quality products, expert advice, and pet medication services. Founded in 2020, Petdirect has quickly become a trusted name in pet care, dedicated to making it easy for Kiwis to provide the best for their furry friends.
