**The Pet Food Market in India: A Transformative Journey**
In a significant shift in the pet care industry, the pet food market in India has undergone a transformative journey. According to Satinder Singh, General Manager (GM) India of Royal Canin, the entire market has changed since the company’s arrival in 2007. With a focus on tackling pet obesity, Royal Canin is leading the charge against misinformation and lack of awareness in the pet food industry.
The Problem of Obesity in Pets
Lack of awareness and misinformation are at the heart of the issue of pet obesity. According to Singh, the company’s survey shows that many pet owners are unaware of the correct diet and feeding habits for their pets. Overfeeding and constant treats of human food are also common contributing factors to obesity in pets.
Changing Trends in the Pet Food Market
The pet food market in India has undergone significant changes since Royal Canin’s arrival. The market size is approximately $550 million, with the share of cat food increasing from 5% to 25-30%. Additionally, there is a shift in preference from large to smaller breeds, and from cheap economy brands to premium brands. However, the lack of awareness and overfeeding remain significant challenges.
Investing in Veterinary Education
Royal Canin is investing heavily in educating the veterinary community in India. The company invites highly qualified vets from developed countries to interact with Indian vets, and provides 500 veterinarians with an AI-powered tool to obtain a second opinion. This collaboration with vet-tech firm Gekkovet is aimed at improving the quality of veterinary care in India.
Growing Presence in India
Despite not manufacturing in India, Royal Canin has invested close to ₹100 crore in setting up a packing centre at Bhiwandi in Maharashtra. This move has helped the company to better address local needs and cater to the growing demand for pet food in India.
Global Portfolio and Local Needs
Royal Canin has a global portfolio of about 500 recipes, translating into around 1,250 stock-keeping units (SKUs). However, the company has tailored its portfolio to meet the local needs of India, with around 250 SKUs currently available. The growing demand for pet food in India, driven by an increase in pet ownership post-Covid, is expected to continue.
Compound Annual Growth Rate
The pet food market in India is experiencing a compound annual growth rate of 15%. According to Singh, Royal Canin is growing marginally higher than the category, driven by its strong presence in the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the pet food market in India has undergone a significant transformation since Royal Canin’s arrival in 2007. With a focus on tackling pet obesity and investing in veterinary education, the company is leading the charge against misinformation and lack of awareness in the pet food industry. As the market continues to grow, Royal Canin is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Indian pet owners.
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