Find Books

This section will introduce several "how-to" books on business to help you get started with your research. These books will primarily introduce you to business plan writing. These books will also introduce general business types such as retail and service business models.

 

Find Books Using Relevant Subject Headings

• Pet industry.
• Pet industry -- Management.
• Pet sitting.
• Pet care.
• Pet grooming.
• Dog trainers.
• Horse trainers.
• Dog walking.
• Kennel management.
• Pet boarding facilities.
• Business planning.
• New business enterprises -- Management.
• Small business -- Management.

 

Google Books 
Google Books is a search feature offered by Google. It enables users to search the full text of approximately 10 million books that Google has scanned and stored in its digital database. It also offers previews of books that are currently still in print.

Worldcat 
A global catalogue of library collections from various libraries around the world. You can search for books on business planning, new enterprises, start-ups, or your specific industry. You can search for all the locations with copies of a specific item, and then locate the item in a nearby library. In Worldcat, you can also view research articles and other digital content directly online.

 

 

illume

A search portal to BC's post-secondary and public library collections (93 libraries). 

Find Business Plans

In the page below you will find examples of successful business plans. Researching your business plan can be a very time-consuming experience, but it is an essential and worthwhile investment. Your business plan will become your most important day to day operating tool. The information resources and strategies in this guide will help you create an effective plan and increase your chances for business success.

Review Sample Plans for Ideas

Most books about starting a business will include examples of business plans, as well as business planning templates. In addition to books, online business resources frequently include sample business plans. Here are a few to get you started.

 

Business Plans

Bplans.com

This site offers a selection of free sample business plans, as well as articles on business planning. Bplans.com also sells business planning software.

• Animal Day Care Business Plan
• Aquarium Services Business Plan
• Dog Kennel Business Plan
• Dog and Cat Kennel Business Plan
• Dog Obedience School Business Plan
• Fish Breeder Business Plan
• Horse Training Business Plan
• Horse Boarding Real Estate Business Plan
• Pet Photography Business Plan
• Pet Supplies Business Plan
• Pet Products Manufacturer Business Plan

 

Business Plans Handbook, Gale Publishing

This is a database of actual business plans written by North American entrepreneurs seeking financing for their businesses. Includes examples of many start-up business ideas. Access is available through many BC public libraries, made possible by a generous donation from the Sutherland Foundation. Affiliates of UBC can start here.

• Pet Photography- Friends Furever Pet Photography
• Pet Sitting Services- Angels Among Us, Inc. 
• Pet Boarding- Doggie Play Care
• Pet Sanctuary- Pawsome Pet Sanctuary 
• Pet Sitting Business- Pet Watchers, Inc. 
• Mobile Pet Grooming Salon- Pretty Paws Pet Salon, LLC
• Pet Daycare and Boarding Services- The Pet Palace, LLC
• Dog Treat Business- Frida’s Treats
• Kennel Business- Best Friend Kennels
• Pet Services Coordination Business - Parkview Pets 
• Pet Aftercare Products, Services, and Gifts- Heavenly Pet Memorials, LLC
• Online Bird Products Retailer - Paul Greenland Toys

 

SCORE

SCORE is a non profit association helping small businesses. Their library includes templates for business plans, SWOT analysis, financial projections and more.

 

Business Plan Template And Cash Flow Forecasting Tool

Our friends at Small Business BC provide two valuable tools in one download: the first is a well-structured business plan template that will help communicate what you plan to do, and how you plan to do it, while the second is a spreadsheet you can fill in to, among other things, project costs and expenses using common line items. These tools will set you on your way to being able to present your business plan to funders. 

 

Marketing Plans

Marketing Plan Outline from Government of Canada |This Government of Canada page reviews the components of a marketing plan and why a marketing plan is necessary for your small business. 

BDC Marketing Plan Template | This comprehensive marketing plan template from BDC is for Canadian entrepreneurs specifically and includes all the important sections of a marketing plan, including an executive summary, identification of your target customer, and how you'll measure your sales.

Small Business BC - How to Write a Marketing Plan
This guide shows you how to develop a marketing plan that includes details like how you intend to meet your customers’ needs and communicate the benefits of your products or services to them. When making any decisions about market positioning, pricing, promotions, and sales, your customers should always be top of mind.

 

Find Capital

In this section you will find links to information on funding for your business. No business can function without money to pay for overhead expenses and production or product costs. It is also unusual for a business founder to have the capital to fully fund their business. The sources in this section will help you consider the best source of funding for your business.

 

Other Suggestions for Obtaining Capital

With proper planning and a few resources to guide you on your way, identifying and securing capital to start and grow your business becomes a much smoother and gentler process. There are several ways to secure the capital needed to fund your business.

 

Government Funding

This is money that the government gives you to fund your business, based on your application to the funding grant. There are other types of government assistance you might wish to explore here: Business Grants and Financing.

Personal Savings

This involves saving your money from your current employment to invest in your business.

Personal Loans

This option means using your personal credit to secure a loan or using your personal credit card for business expenses.

Crowdfunding/Micro-Lending

Crowdfunding and micro-lending are both alternative ways of raising capital that involve having large groups of people pre-buy your product before it is launched or loan you small amounts that you can then use to finance your business.

Private Financing/Equity Financing

This type of financing comes in the form of loans from banks or individuals. It is obtained through your business’ credit availability or through providing equity in your business in exchange for money. This financing involves going into debt or giving up some control of your business.

Below, we have some resources that can help you find funding options for your business:

• Fundica
• Funding and Grants Database
• Innovation Canada

 

Industry Codes: The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

At the start of your research, it may not be clear what specific industry you should be examining. A good strategy is to find out if your business idea is classified in an industrial classification system. These systems organize industries by assigning them a numeric code. The most commonly used system is the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Once you know your Industry Classification Code you can use this number to:

• Find industry-specific statistics on government websites or in library databases
• Generate lists of competitors in company directories

Another common classification system is the Standard Industry Code (SIC). NAICS have mostly replaced the SIC, but the SIC is still used by some commercial databases. Finding and using these classification systems to effectively search can be tricky, so don't hesitate to ask a librarian for help.

Start With These Suggestions

​​

Search or browse all NAICS or SIC codes on the NAICS Association website. Some NAICS codes are different in Canada — you can search by keyword or browse Canadian NAICS codes at Statistics Canada or Canadian Industry Statistics. To search for a SIC code using a NAICS code and vice versa, use the NAICS & SIC Crosswalks.   

For more information about planning your industry research, including identifying your industry codes, check out the video tutorial for Module 3: Planning Your Industry Research.

Library Databases

The Expensive World Of Business Information

Believe it or not, you cannot find everything on Google! Have you ever done an online search and found the perfect industry report only to find that it costs over $5,000? Did you know that libraries pay for many expensive databases that could be helpful in your secondary market research? 

Search engines like Google can only provide direct access to freely available information. Most of the web, including business information, lives in databases behind expensive paywalls. This paywall-protected section of the Internet is known as the deep web. Fortunately, some libraries pay to subscribe to databases so they can provide free access to their patrons — and many business databases can contain useful information such as articles, market research, and company reports.

There are several strategies you can use to access relevant business information on the deep web. First, we urge you to look up what business resources your local public or academic library can provide access to. Each database has its own arrangement, with unique interfaces and search features. It helps to know the structure and search terms of the specific database you are working with in order to retrieve effective results. 

Also, it is important to know that library databases are restricted by specific usage agreements. It can help to consult with a librarian if you have trouble navigating a specific database. They may also be able to help you find comparable information elsewhere. Libraries with robust business collections might have useful e-books, directories and trade journals. As you conduct your secondary market research you will likely need to consult both free and deep web resources.

For more information about how and why to use business databases, check out our video tutorial, Module Four: Conducting Your Industry Research.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Provincial Library Database Partners

How to access: Check out the database list and note the License Participants to find out which institutions have access. Otherwise, contact your local post-secondary library to see what they offer.

BC Electronic Library Network (ELN) Research Databases

ELN licenses databases with partner academic libraries. These include LexisNexis, Canadian Newsstream, Hoovers, CBCA Business, ABI/INFORM Complete and others that may be of interest to business researchers.

 

ABI/INFORM Collection

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Created by ProQuest this database contains full-text articles from over 1,000 business magazines and journals that track business conditions, trends, management techniques, corporate strategies, and industry-specific topics.

• (2022, Nov 10). Pet grooming market sales is likely to reach a healthy CAGR of 6.2% and cross a revenue of US$ 2.5 bn during the forecast period of 2022-32. latest data analysis by future market insights, inc.: The Europe pet grooming market is expected to account for 19.3% of the total market share over the forecast period. Rising trend of pet humanization. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel.  Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Nov 02). Pet hotels market is estimated to hit a revenue of US$ 9.7 bn by year 2032 end, up from US$ 4.4 bn likely to be achieved in the year 2022 | future market insights, inc.: Rising demand for personalized pet services will fuel pet hotels market to reach US$ 9679.1 mn by 2032. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 24). Global pet care market is certain to witness a humongous sales growth & reach a revenue of US$ 338.5 billion by year 2031 end at a CAGR of 6.1% | future market insights, inc.: High cost of prime-quality pet care services may impede pet care market growth. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 10). Pet safe cleaners market is predict to reach US$ 7.9601 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 3.0% from 2022-32 | Future Market Insights, Inc.: The global pet cleanser market is estimated to be growing rapidly owing to the increase in the purchase or adoption of pets (primarily cats, dogs, and birds) and the growing importance of personal hygiene for pets. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Pet care services - quarterly update 5/23/2022. (2022). (). Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Pet & pet supplies stores - quarterly update 12/9/2022. (2022). (). Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 04). With a lot of claw: Dogs and cats drive a growing market for pet services. Trans. Content Engine, LLC. CE Noticias Financieras. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Sep 29). Pet oral care products market is increasing due to awareness about dental hygiene of companion animals is positively impacting | future market insights, inc.: The recent pet oral care market survey report shows that the north american region dominates the overall share, with the highest demand for such products and services. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel.Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Sep 19). Insights on the pet sitting global market to 2030 - increasing adoption of subscription-based pet services is driving growth. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
•  (2022, Sep 07). Pet treat market to exceed US$ 122.1 bn by 2032 as sales of organic pet treats grow | future market insights, inc.: Pet treat brands in the U.S. are providing innovative products to pet owners such as single-ingredient freeze-dried treats and limited-ingredient freeze-dried treats along with other sustainable dog toy and accessories, thus creating demand for the product in the country. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Pet lodging market to reach US$ 5 billion by 2032 amid rise in pet adoption rates worldwide | future market insights, inc.: As per FMI, the U.S. pet lodging market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 775 million in 2022. this is due to rapid surge in pet adoption rates, increasing pet spending and availability of advanced pet lodging services. in recent years, UAE has become one of the most lucrative markets for pet lodging across the MEA region and this trend is likely to continue during the forecast period. (2022, Aug 12). NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Wag group differentiated compared to others in online pet services -- market talk. (2022, Aug 22). Dow Jones Institutional News. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022). Global pet apparel market to value US $ 7 billion by 2032, says FMI report. Apparel Resources. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Binns, J., & Gonzalez, P. G. (2022). Gucci is selling $460 mohair dog hats and $7,500 luxury pet beds. Sourcing Journal (Online). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Harrell, A. (2022). Fashion for the Dogs—By the dogg. Sourcing Journal (Online). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Kirkpatrick, T. J. (2022, May 04). How cats are winning the postpandemic economy; long ignored by the pet industry, services for felines are starting to pick up. Wall Street Journal (Online). Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Toneguzzi, M. (2022). Petland looks to expansion in Western Canada with 10,000 sq. ft. store footprints [interview]. Retail Insider. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Lee, J. (2022, Jun 11). EXCHANGE --- heard on the street: The pandemic pet boom has legs --- pet spending is holding up better than most other retail categories. retailers will still have to fight for market share. Wall Street Journal. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 

 

Mergent Online

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Provides access to US and international public company data. This database also contains data on companies that were acquired, went bankrupt, liquidated or merged out of existence from 1995 forward. Users can compare companies and export data into programs like Excel.

 

BCC Research Centre

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Publishes 250 reports annually that are complete with market intelligence, five-year forecasts, statistical and analytical data, key players, market share, industry structure and dynamics, and technological shifts and trends.

• TBRC. (2022, September). Pet Food Market Global Briefing 2022: Ukraine-Russia War Impact. [Report Code MKB071I]. Retrieved from BCC Research database.
• TBRC (2022, September). Animal and Pet Food Market Global Briefing 2022: Ukraine-Russia War Impact. [Report Code MKB337F]. Retrieved from BCC Research database.

 

Business Source Ultimate

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Includes financial data, books, videos, company profiles, SWOT analyses, industry profiles, country reports, market research reports and case studies. Also includes information on industry trends, forecasts, outlooks, competitors, how to run a specific business and much more.

• Socha, M. (2021). Behind the Explosive Business Of Designer Pet Accessories: The global market for pet products, excluding food, is projected to hit $36.89 billion by 2025. WWD: Women’s Wear Daily, 14–15. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Beaton, L. (2021). 2 top trends for 2021 according to the pet food industry: The 2020 pandemic has brought both pet owners’ desires for sustainable products and their use of e-commerce channels for product purchasing into sharp relief. Petfood Industry, 63(1), 18–25. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• (2018).New opportunities as industry diversifies: AMA Research offers insight into the pet accessories market, with growth coming from products for small dogs, and opportunities in ’pet technology products’, whilst retailers diversify to offer a wide range of products and services. DIY Week. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Thompson, L. (2021). Pampering Our Pets: Tips for Growing Sales in Pet Products. Hardware Retailing, 220(6), 38–39. 5844, 15. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Montemarano, M. (2021). Pet Nutrition: In the From-Home Era, Consumers Tune into Health Needs of Four-Legged Friends: With trends in pet supplements corresponding with popular human health concerns, the outlook for specialty products is promising. Nutraceuticals World, 24(4), 36–41. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Skelly, C. (2021). C-Store Opportunity: Pet CBD: Brightfield Group data shows significant growth in the pet CBD market, driven by factors like rising awareness of its benefits and ongoing pet humanization; c-stores would be wise to capitalize on this trend. Convenience Store Decisions, 32(9), 102. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Pets at Home Group Plc. SWOT Analysis. (2021). Pets at Home Group Plc SWOT Analysis, 1–6. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.

 

First Research Industry Profiles

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, or faculty you can access many of these reports through ABI/INFORM and/or Business Market Research Collection (Proquest).

Covers over 900 industry segments. Updated on a quarterly basis, these industry profiles contain critical analysis, statistics and forecasts to help you engage key prospects, coach key clients, and deepen customer relationships. You can search for reports by NAICS, SIC or keyword or browse by category.

• (2022) Veterinary Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 11/22/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.
• Pet care services - quarterly update 5/23/2022. (2022). (). Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Pet & pet supplies stores - quarterly update 12/9/2022. (2022). (). Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database.

 

IBISWorld Industry Reports

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

IBISWorld research is an independent, professional publisher of high-quality market research reports. These reports analyze the underlying structure and external forces that drive an industry.

• DellaCamera, C. (2022, November). Pet Grooming and Boarding in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 8291CA / OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION) IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Brocker, M. (2022, June). Pet Grooming and Boarding in the US. US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 81291 / OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION). IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database. 
• DellaCamera, C. (2022, August). Pet Stores in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 45391CA / RETAIL TRADE IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• DellaCamera, C. (2022, February). Small Specialty Retail Stores in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 45399aCA / RETAIL TRADE IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Madigan, J. (2021, January). Premium Pet Food Production in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT OD6157 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database
• Ross, G. (2021, July). Dog Walking Services in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT OD4350 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.

 

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Packaged Facts. (2022, November). Canadian Pet Market Survey 2022. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2022, August). US Pet Market Focus: Pet Store and Pet Specialty Retailing. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2021, December). US Pet Market Focus: Pet Product Retail and Internet Shopping Trends 2021. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2021, March). Pet Products and Services: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2022, September). Pet Populations and Ownership Trends in the US, 6th edition. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2021, February). US Pet Market Focus: Mass Market Channel Shoppers. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

 

Business Market Research Collection (Proquest)

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Business Market Research Collection brings together four sources to help students more easily conduct the research they need to produce business plans, marketing plans, startup plans, market growth analysis, and strategic and financial plans. Includes access to: Hoover's Company Profiles, OxResearch, Barnes Reports, and the older Snapshots Series, which includes market research overviews on over 40 industries and 40 countries to 2008.

• (2022) Veterinary Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 11/22/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.

 

Statista

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

A simple to use statistics portal that integrates statistics from thousands of sources, on topics related to business, media, public policy, health and others. Statistics can be exported in PPT, XLS, PDF, and PNG formats. Some basic content available for free.

• Bradford, E. (2021, December 14). Share of respondents who owned a pet in Canada as of June 2021, by region. Abacus Data. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, October 10). Number of pet and pet supplies store in Canada in December 2021, by region. StatCan. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• (2022, October). Pet lovers in Canada. Statista Consumer Insights. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, November 9). Number of cats and dogs in households in Canada in 2020, by type. Pet Food Processing. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, November 9). Total pet population in Canada in 2020, by type. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, March 4). Average annual household expenditure on pet expenses in Canada from 2010 to 2019 (in Canadian dollars)*. StatCan. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, January 19). Channel used by consumers to purchase pet food in Canada in 2020. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Tighe, D. (2021, January 22). Dog products purchased by consumers online in the last 12 months in the United States in 2018. Packaged Facts. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, October 12). Annual cost of caring for a dog in Canada 2022, by expense type. Ontario Veterinary Medical Association. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Bradford, E. (2022, November 29). Annual cost of caring for a cat in Canada 2022, by expense type. Ontario Veterinary Medical Association. Retrieved from Statista database. 

 

WARC: World Advertising Research Center

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

WARC has case studies from major companies and advertising agencies, as well as articles from leading advertising journals and unpublished papers. It also includes company profiles, advertising spending statistics, and demographic and economic data.

• (2020). Honey, I’m Home: Dog Treats. Design Business Association: Effective Design Awards. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2019). Pedigrees: SelfieSTIX. WARC Creative 100. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2022, May). What’s working in direct-to-consumer 2022. WARC Category Intelligence. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2020). Pets at Home: Very Important Pets Club. Data and Marketing Association. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• Lopes, D., and Brydon, E. WhiskasKIT: How cat content grew up to drive digital growth. WARC Awards. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• Euromonitor. (2021, June). World market for pet care. Research on WARC. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2021, April). A casual flirtation or a committed relationship? Assessing the post-pandemic stickiness of product subscriptions. Research on WARC. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2014). Pet Humanisation: The trend and its strategic impact on global pet care markets – executive briefing. Euromonitor Strategy Briefings. Retrieved from WARC database. 

 

Newspapers and News Sources - UBC Library Research Guide

How to access: The guide can be viewed through the link below. Individual resources and databases will have different access requirements.

UBC Library has an excellent collection of current and historical newspapers from B.C., Canada, and around the world. UBC affiliates will have access to these resources.

• Phillips, K. (2022, May 11). New pet spa looks to go above and beyond an average grooming salons. Pincher Creek Echo. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database. 
• (2021, Nov 30). Pet owners overjoyed with reopening of grooming service. Niagara this Week. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database. 
• Shykora, B. (2022, Feb 19). Spallumcheen pet food brand nominated for 2 small business awards. The Morning Star. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database. 
• (2021, Nov 30). Brighton woman fetches young entrepreneur award for pet-sitting, accessory business. The Brighton Independent Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database. 

 

Industry News

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.

 

Associations

Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.

Canadian Associations

National Groomer Association of Canada (NGAC) | The NGAC connects passionate groomers and animal care givers from coast to coast; advocating ethical grooming and treating animals with respect, promoting work place health and safety, encourages and supports continuing education. They offer several programs and have a comprehensive job board; check out their professional pet grooming certifications. 

Pet Food Association of Canada (PFAC) | The PFAC is an industry association comprised of Canadian pet food manufacturers. Check out the helpful link for tips on importing and exporting pet food.

Canadian Professional Pet Stylists | Canadian Professional Pet Stylists strives to grow the knowledge of pet groomers across Canada by offering certifications of the highest quality. 

Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council of Canada (PIJAC) | PIJAC is the voice of the Canadian pet industry, working to raise the standards of pet care across Canada and advocate for pet businesses. Check out the News section for current pet industry-related information.

Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers (CAPPDT) | The CAPPDT is an excellent resource for dog obedience trainers and instructors. Check out the Becoming A Professional Dog Trainer page.

 

International Associations

Pet Food Institute (PFI) | The PFI is the voice of the US pet food industry. Check out the Pet Food Matters section for pet food related regulations and nutritional information.

American Pet Products Association (APPA) | The AAPA is a US-based trade association serving the interests of the pet products industry. Check out the extensive Market Research section.

International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) | The IACP was established to develop and promote the highest standards of professional and business practice among canine professionals. Check out the Articles For Professionals section.

Pet Sitters International (PSI) | PSI is the world’s largest educational association for professional pet sitters. It represents businesses in Canada, the US and more! Check out the Resource Library.

 

Magazines & Trade Journals

Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for business planning. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.

Pet Business Magazine | A comprehensive business resource magazine aimed at pet retailers. Published monthly.

Modern Dog | A Canadian magazine that is published  four times per year offers information exclusively about dogs, from food, to health, to toys. 

Animal Wellness Magazine | Published six times a year, this magazine offers a look at the natural pet health industry. 

Groomer to Groomer | First published in 1981, this monthly magazine includes articles on the latest grooming tools, interviews with industry professionals, and opinion pieces.

 

Consultant & Other Websites

 

L.E.K. | L.E.K. is a global marketing and consulting brand that helps participants in many industries narrow down their value propositions and hone their go-to-market strategies, including participants in a pet industry fuelled by positive macro trends such as pet humanization and an increased awareness of pet care. 

Pet Business Solutions | A leading pet industry marketing and consulting brand, Pet Business Solutions specializes in coming up with creative strategies. 

MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.

PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.

Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.

• Pet Sitters

Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre | This free resource created by the Vancouver Public Library is an online and in-person resource that helps newcomers to Canada find information to get a job, explore different careers or start a business.

 

Blogs & Discussion Forums 

Blogs

Pet Business Owners Blog | The Pet Business Owners blog is a fantastic resource. It focuses on pet sitting and dog walking but the entrepreneur-centric advice it gives can cover any aspect of the pet industry. Among the topics you will find are: tips for avoiding burnout in your pet business, how to use Instagram to market yourself, and how to write a business plan. 

Jodi Murphy Blog | The personal blog of national certified master groomer Jodi Murphy, this blog offers targeted advice on grooming different dog breeds, what type of shears to use, and avoiding common pitfalls groomers often experience, such as being pushed to work faster. Though it is not updated frequently, its advice and topics are still essential to any budding dog groomer.

Pet Biz Marketer | Pet Biz Marketer contains advice for any sort of pet business. Topics include how to create a 6-month marketing action plan, animal care marketing strategies, and how to grow your dog treat business. 

Pet Sitters International (PSI) | Pet Sitters International also hosts a blog which regularly posts on topics such as what pet sitters can get from a certification course, the importance of networking, and things pet sitters should consider such as pet insurance.

Podcasts

The Pet Photographers Club | The Pet Photographers Club covers several aspects of the pet photography business for creative entrepreneurs, including how to sell more products, how to understand your community for more successful marketing, and how to go mobile with your pet photography business.

The Prosperous Pet Business Podcast | Kristin Morrison interviews owners of all sorts of pet businesses- grooming, doggy day care, dog walking and pet sitting, and specialty pet treats. These entrepreneurs are at all stages of their careers, and have insights that will be valuable to any beginning petpreneur. 

The Pet Business Coach | The Pet Business Coach provides business advice for entrepreneurs who love pets and want to start their own pet-related business.

Publicity for Pet Businesses | Publicity for Pet Businesses is hosted by Rachel Spencer, a self-proclaimed crazy dog lady. She interviews pet professionals about their businesses and draws out insights with the training of a seasoned journalist. In the process she uncovers a wealth of social media tips, tricks, and advice for pet businesses.

 

TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.

 

Government Websites

In this section we have gathered some of the most reliable freely available online government and employment websites for you to use in your research.

 

Canadian Websites

BC Stats | Current reports and statistics from British Columbia's central statistical agency including labour market information, economic statistics and bankruptcies. Start by searching their Industry section and narrowing by industry type or go to the Business, Industry & Trade page to skim all the different business-related topics.

Government of Canada - Business and Industry | The Government of Canada's comprehensive page for business and industry guides you through important information on starting a business. You will find necessary permits and information on tax and regulation, as well as advice on how to protect your intellectual property through copyright or trademark, a primer for selling to the federal government, information on importing and exporting goods, and advice on managing and protecting your business operations. 

• Starting a business 
• Overview of federal government Services for Small Business

 

Statistics Canada Data | Formerly known as CANSIM, Statistics Canada's key socioeconomic database is updated daily. It is free to search the data tables.

• Vet these numbers: Pet care in Canada

 

Canadian Industry Statistics (CIS) - Industry Canada | CIS analyses industry data on many economic indicators using the most recent data from Statistics Canada. CIS looks at industry trends and financial information, such as GDP, Labour Productivity, Manufacturing and Trade data.

• 81921: Pet care (except veterinary services)
• 3111: Animal food manufacturing

 

City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal

How to access: The guide can be viewed through the link above and is free to use.

The Government of Canada routinely collects vast quantities and kinds of information on a diverse spectrum of topics. Now the City of Vancouver is making this information available to the public in a single concise searchable portal called Open Data 101. This data is accessible to the public and structured in an easy to understand format.

• (2022). Business Licenses. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.
• (2022). Animal control inventory - register. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.
• (2022). Animal control inventory - lost and found. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.

 

Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada

Provides market research, industry statistics, licensing information for intellectual property, and information about doing business internationally. The Industry Canada site features interactive applications such as customizable trade reports, cost calculators, and online business planning guides. You can also search broad Canadian industry statistics.

• (Search [http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/home] and if there’s anything relevant include it here)

 

The Daily - Statistics Canada

The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.

• Expected changes in spending habits during the recovery period

 

WorkBC | Find current employment outlooks, labour market information, relevant links, and a geographic representation of the BC workforce. Start by searching your Industry Profile.

• Pet groomers and animal care workers (NOC 6563)

 

US & International Websites

Small Business Administration: Free Small Business Data

This site is created and managed by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides a list of free sources of information that you can use to obtain data about markets in the US.

AgEcon Search: Research in Agricultural and Applied Economics

AgEcon Search collects, indexes, and electronically distributes full text copies of scholarly research in the broadly defined field of agricultural economics including sub disciplines such as agribusiness, food supply, natural resource economics, environmental economics, policy issues, agricultural trade, and economic development.

• Hill, M., Shanoyan, A., and Aldrich, G. (2022) Animal Protein-Based Ingredients in Pet Food: Analysis of Supply Chain and Market Drivers. [Conference presentation.] AgEcon Forum. Retrieved from AGEcon Search database. 
• Brooks, D. (2019). The whole bowl: partnering with pet food. [Conference presentation.] AgEcon Forum. Retrieved from AGEcon Search database. 
• Hobbs, L., and Shanoyan, A. (2018). Analysis of Consumer Perception of Product Attributes in Pet Food: Implications for Marketing and Brand Strategy. [Conference presentation.] AgEcon Forum. Retrieved from AGEcon Search database.

 

Regulations

Learn More About Compliance Issues

When it comes to starting a business, one of the first decisions you need to make is the legal structure of your business - sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, or limited company. You'll also need to register your business and you'll need to be aware of many municipal, provincial or federal regulations. The websites in this section will help you.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Permits and Licenses Search

Search for the permits and licenses applicable to your industry and location to meet all federal, provincial and municipal regulations.

 

General Business Resources

BizPaL

This is the one-stop website to assist Canadian businesses that are just starting up, or expanding into new areas. BizPaL asks you a short series of questions about the nature and scope of your current or proposed business. Based on your answers, BizPaL provides you with a customized list of government permits and licences that you may require to operate your business. All of the information that you provide is kept anonymous, and you may save or print your results for future reference.

 

Canada Revenue Agency - Business

This section of the Canadian federal tax agency's website contains important taxation and documentation requirements that businesses operating in Canada must adhere to.

• Keeping records
• Business Number (BN) registration
• Business expenses

 

Small Business BC (SBBC)

SBBC is a great place to start for information on BC specific regulations and guidelines, for whatever stage you are in your business development. This is a great post on the topic.

 

The Province of British Columbia

Provides information on programs and resources available to small business owners in British Columbia. Includes information on taxes and industry regulations. Start with the Permits, Licences & Registrations section.

 

BC Business Registry

British Columbia's online Business Registry is a self-serve application allowing small business owners to complete provincial registrations or incorporations of their business, file name requests on behalf of their business, and store maintenance filings required by British Columbia. Anyone with a BC Registries account may also search for existing businesses and clients, providing access to business information and filings for co-operatives, benefit companies, sole proprietorships, and general partnerships. Use the Business Structures Wizard to help you!

Tips on Company Research

An in-depth investigation and analysis of your competition is one of the most important components of a comprehensive market analysis. A competitive analysis allows you to assess your competitors' strengths and weaknesses in the marketplace, and to implement effective strategies to improve your competitive advantage. Here are some research strategies for doing your competitive analysis:

• Company directories can be used to create lists of competitors by industry, product line, size, etc.
• Doing a company name search in a general research database is an excellent way to learn more about your competitor’s products, services, prices, and media coverage.
• If your competitors are public companies, learn more about them by reading their financials and annual reports.
• News archives provide a range of competitive information on both public and private companies.
• Patents are a good way to learn about the technical and design features of a competitor's products. You can refer to this UBC Library Research Guide, created by UBC Engineering Librarians, if you are looking for patent information. Most of the resources listed are freely available.

For information on primary and secondary market research, as well as common sources for secondary market research, watch our video tutorial Module One: Introduction To Market Research.

Finding information on public companies is considerably easier than finding information on privately-held companies. Information on public companies is readily available online, or at your local library. Another good starting point is the list of resources in the next section of this Accelerator Guide: Find Competitors. Unlike public companies, private companies are not required to file with the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR). Searching for private company information is considerably more difficult and will require a lot of patience, and a healthy dose of creativity. 

Find Competitors

Learning About Competitors

To create a list of competitors and find basic information about them (e.g. number of employees, contact information) you will need to consult business directories. Many directories are available online for free, while others are fee-based commercial databases. You can find directories that are particular to an industry or geography. Your local library will likely have a good collection of directories that you can consult in person.

For further information about secondary market research, see our video tutorial Module Two: Secondary Market Research for Industry Analysis.

If you know of some public companies in your industry, then annual reports can provide a great deal of useful financial information including sales volume, revenue increases, and total market share. You can search the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) for Canadian Company filings. If the competitor you are researching does business in the US, then you search the Security and Exchange Commissions equivalent, EDGAR, which provides free public access to corporate information including financial information and operations by reviewing registration statements, prospectuses and periodic reports filed on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. You also can find information about recent corporate events reported on Form 8-K that a company does not have to disclose to investors. You can use advanced search features to search by Standard Industry Classification (SIC) codes.

 

Free Business Directories

CanadaOne - Canadian Business Directory

CanadaOne has a directory of over 20,000 Canadian businesses.

Federal Corporations Data Online 

Free searchable database of federally incorporated/registered companies.

Frasers

A comprehensive industrial directory and search tool, with information on products and services provided by Canadian industrial wholesalers, manufacturers, and distributors. You can search by product name, company name, or brand name.

• Pet Groomer Suppliers
• Pet Treat Suppliers

D&B Hoovers

Provides information on 18 million US and international companies, both public and private. D&B Hoovers' reports are generated quickly, and are easy to read. A fair amount of information is provided for free, but much more is available with a paid subscription. If you know the company name or ticker symbol of any of the key players in your industry, try searching for their Hoovers records to find key information. Use the link above for free information or contact your local library to see if they provide access. Affiliates of UBC may have access. 

• Homie and Hounds, Inc. 
• Wags and Whiskers Pet Supplies and Services Inc. 
• Rosie’s Pet Services (Vancouver)
• Part of the Family Pet Sitting Services

Proprietary Business Directories

Business in Vancouver, Book of Lists

Comprehensive collection of BC business data compiled annually as the popular BIV Book of Lists. Provides data on over 1000 companies including: websites, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, top executives' names, company age, revenues, profits and much more. UBC affiliates and in-person community researchers can obtain access to a print version (here are details on how to locate it) or you can get your own online subscription.

 

Mergent Online

Provides access to detailed information on US and international companies. Data can be compared and exported into software applications such as Excel. Affiliates of UBC can learn more and get access.

 

The Blue Book of Canadian Business

Detailed profiles for over 60 Canadian corporations, including missions/values, history, operations, social responsibility and executive biographies. Also contains directory type information for 2,500 Canadian companies, a ranking of the top 500 companies and a list of the top 400 Canadian stocks. UBC affiliates and in-person community researchers can obtain access to a print version of this periodical (here are details on how to locate it at UBC in Vancouver).

 

Reference Canada

Provides information on more than one million businesses throughout Canada. Includes name, address, phone number, contacts, number of employees, annual sales volumes, line of business, and credit rating. Vancouver Public Library subscribes to this online directory so check with your local library about access.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Mapping Your Competitors

Online maps such as Google Maps or Bing Maps and popular directories such as Yelp are a fast way to locate nearby competitors, and to get a better sense of the region your business operates within. Try searching for the name of your product or industry and narrowing your results by focusing the map on a specific location, such as a city or neighborhood.

SimplyAnalytics

This is an Internet-based mapping application that enables users to develop interactive thematic maps and reports using thousands of demographic, business, and marketing data variables. Check your local public or academic library for access. UBC affiliates can learn more and get access.

 

Trade Shows

Attending trade shows is an excellent way to learn more about your competitors. Contact local associations or read trade publications to find out what trade shows are coming to your community.

10Times.com | The largest worldwide online directory of trade fairs, business exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, and seminars for various industries. Search for trade shows by industry, country, date, organizer, or venue.

National Pet Industry Trade Show | Hosted by SPIJAC Canada, this is the largest pet industry trade show of its kind in Canada, with 90,000 square feet of exhibition space for over 300 companies to exhibit the latest and greatest in pet products. 

Global Pet Expo | Global Pet Expo features thousands of pet product wholesalers and buyers. It features the newest, most innovative pet products, and is the place to get your product seen. 

SuperZoo | SuperZoo is North America’s largest pet retail event. In addition to debuting the latest pet products for pets of every shape and size, it also offers management and e-commerce solutions. 

GroomExpo | Groom Expo is the world’s largest grooming show, welcoming thousands of pet professionals to the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. It hosts educational seminars, holds grooming competitions, and plenty of networking opportunities.

Find Financial Benchmarks

One thing you will need to do in the financials section of your business plan is discuss how you will price your products and/or services, and how this compares to your competitors. You will need to develop a financial plan that includes your projected revenues and net income. The following resources will help you find financial information on competitors in your industry.

 

Free Tools for Finding Financial Info

EDGAR

Filings with the US Securities & Exchange Commission by companies listed on US exchanges. 10-K Forms include detailed information on company history, structure, financial statements, and other relevant data.

 

SEDAR

A collection of corporate filings that are required by securities regulators, from companies operating in Canada. This website is an excellent source for information about a company's plans, competitive environment, markets, products, and assets. SEDAR is the Canadian equivalent of EDGAR.

 

Finding Benchmarks & Ratios

Ratios are tools that allow you to plan and assess your company's progress over time, and to compare it to other companies in the same industry. There are diferent kinds of ratios, including operating ratios, financial ratios, performance indicators, and benchmarks.

 

Financial Performance Data (formerly SME Benchmarking Tool)

Tool for benchmarking your financial reports with others in your sector. Website also includes a collection of financial data and annual reports of various Canadian companies. For instructions on using the Financial Performance Data click here. To create a report using Financial Performance data click here.

TIP: Remember to search using your NAICS code (eg. 81291 for Pet Care (except Veterinary Services))

 

Financial Performance Indicators for Canadian Business

Offers current financial ratios by industry, based on data provided by Statistics Canada. The indicators are designed to serve as financial performance benchmarks against which individual firms and industries can be compared. Affiliates of UBC, UNBC, UVic and SFU have access through Abacus Dataverse. If you are visiting, please contact your local library about access.

 

 

Proprietary Tools For Finding Financial Info

UBC Company Research Guide

This research guide was created by UBC business librarians. Follow this link to go directly to the section of the guide that features various UBC Library electronic resources that are recommended for searching for financial information on competitors, such as credit rankings, stock prices and investment analyst reports. You can explore the navigation on the right-hand side to find more recommended research sources on the general topic of company research.

 

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

 

Mergent Online

Provides access to detailed information on US and international companies. Data can be compared and exported into software applications such as Excel. Affiliates of UBC can learn more and get access.

 

Tools For Calculating Your Own Financials

• Financial Ratio Calculators - Business Development Canada
• Financial Ratios Calculator: Debt to Equity and Other Ratios - Canada One
• Business Calculators - GoForth Institute

 

Market Share & Size

Both market size and market share held by competitors are key factors when assessing the competitive environment. Keep in mind that there is no single source of market size and market share data. Market information is usually pieced together from various sources and is not often readily available for niche or emerging industries. One strategy is to combine a competitor's name or a comparable, established industry with the term market share in article databases or read market research reports. You will need to identify and describe your market – who your customers are and what the demand is for your products and services.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

 

ABI/INFORM Collection

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Created by ProQuest this database contains full-text articles from over 1,000 business magazines and journals that track business conditions, trends, management techniques, corporate strategies, and industry-specific topics.

• (2022, Nov 10). Pet grooming market sales is likely to reach a healthy CAGR of 6.2% and cross a revenue of US$ 2.5 bn during the forecast period of 2022-32. latest data analysis by future market insights, inc.: The Europe pet grooming market is expected to account for 19.3% of the total market share over the forecast period. Rising trend of pet humanization. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel.  Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Nov 02). Pet hotels market is estimated to hit a revenue of US$ 9.7 bn by year 2032 end, up from US$ 4.4 bn likely to be achieved in the year 2022 | future market insights, inc.: Rising demand for personalized pet services will fuel pet hotels market to reach US$ 9679.1 mn by 2032. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 24). Global pet care market is certain to witness a humongous sales growth & reach a revenue of US$ 338.5 billion by year 2031 end at a CAGR of 6.1% | future market insights, inc.: High cost of prime-quality pet care services may impede pet care market growth. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 10). Pet safe cleaners market is predict to reach US$ 7.9601 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 3.0% from 2022-32 | Future Market Insights, Inc.: The global pet cleanser market is estimated to be growing rapidly owing to the increase in the purchase or adoption of pets (primarily cats, dogs, and birds) and the growing importance of personal hygiene for pets. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Oct 04). With a lot of claw: Dogs and cats drive a growing market for pet services. Trans. Content Engine, LLC. CE Noticias Financieras. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Sep 29). Pet oral care products market is increasing due to awareness about dental hygiene of companion animals is positively impacting | future market insights, inc.: The recent pet oral care market survey report shows that the north american region dominates the overall share, with the highest demand for such products and services. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel.Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Sep 19). Insights on the pet sitting global market to 2030 - increasing adoption of subscription-based pet services is driving growth. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
•  (2022, Sep 07). Pet treat market to exceed US$ 122.1 bn by 2032 as sales of organic pet treats grow | future market insights, inc.: Pet treat brands in the U.S. are providing innovative products to pet owners such as single-ingredient freeze-dried treats and limited-ingredient freeze-dried treats along with other sustainable dog toy and accessories, thus creating demand for the product in the country. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• Pet lodging market to reach US$ 5 billion by 2032 amid rise in pet adoption rates worldwide | future market insights, inc.: As per FMI, the U.S. pet lodging market is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 775 million in 2022. this is due to rapid surge in pet adoption rates, increasing pet spending and availability of advanced pet lodging services. in recent years, UAE has become one of the most lucrative markets for pet lodging across the MEA region and this trend is likely to continue during the forecast period. (2022, Aug 12). NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 

 

BCC Research Centre

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Publishes 250 reports annually that are complete with market intelligence, five-year forecasts, statistical and analytical data, key players, market share, industry structure and dynamics, and technological shifts and trends.

• TBRC. (2022, September). Pet Food Market Global Briefing 2022: Ukraine-Russia War Impact. [Report Code MKB071I]. Retrieved from BCC Research database.
• TBRC (2022, September). Animal and Pet Food Market Global Briefing 2022: Ukraine-Russia War Impact. [Report Code MKB337F]. Retrieved from BCC Research database.

 

Business Source Ultimate

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Includes financial data, books, videos, company profiles, SWOT analyses, industry profiles, country reports, market research reports and case studies. Also includes information on industry trends, forecasts, outlooks, competitors, how to run a specific business and much more.

• Socha, M. (2021). Behind the Explosive Business Of Designer Pet Accessories: The global market for pet products, excluding food, is projected to hit $36.89 billion by 2025. WWD: Women’s Wear Daily, 14–15. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• (2018).New opportunities as industry diversifies: AMA Research offers insight into the pet accessories market, with growth coming from products for small dogs, and opportunities in ’pet technology products’, whilst retailers diversify to offer a wide range of products and services. DIY Week. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Thompson, L. (2021). Pampering Our Pets: Tips for Growing Sales in Pet Products. Hardware Retailing, 220(6), 38–39. 5844, 15. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Montemarano, M. (2021). Pet Nutrition: In the From-Home Era, Consumers Tune into Health Needs of Four-Legged Friends: With trends in pet supplements corresponding with popular human health concerns, the outlook for specialty products is promising. Nutraceuticals World, 24(4), 36–41. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.
• Skelly, C. (2021). C-Store Opportunity: Pet CBD: Brightfield Group data shows significant growth in the pet CBD market, driven by factors like rising awareness of its benefits and ongoing pet humanization; c-stores would be wise to capitalize on this trend. Convenience Store Decisions, 32(9), 102. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate database.

 

eMarketer

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Or, contact your local public or academic library for their access details.

Global market research and trend analysis database that focuses on Internet, e-business, online marketing, media, and emerging technologies.

• Wolff, E. (2022, August 25). The pandemic pet boom keeps Petco growing. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.
• Feger, A. (2022, September 20). Pet sales grow with help from the bare necessities. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.
• Wolff, E. (2022, August 10). Chewy doubles down on subscription revenues with pet insurance and wellness plans. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.
• (2022, August 4). US In-store and Digital Pet Care Department Sales Share, by Category, 52 weeks ending July 2, 2022. [Chart.] NielsenIQ. Retrieved from eMarketer database.
• (2022, November). US Retail eCommerce Sales, by Category. [Chart.] eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.
• (2022, November). Top 15 US Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Pet and Pet Care Sites, Ranked by Monthly Visits, Sep 2021 & Sep 2022. [Chart.] PipeCandy. Retrieved from eMarketer database.

 

IBISWorld Industry Reports

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

IBISWorld research is an independent, professional publisher of high-quality market research reports. These reports analyze the underlying structure and external forces that drive an industry.

• DellaCamera, C. (2022, November). Pet Grooming and Boarding in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 8291CA / OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION) IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Brocker, M. (2022, June). Pet Grooming and Boarding in the US. US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 81291 / OTHER SERVICES (EXCEPT PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION). IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database. 
• DellaCamera, C. (2022, August). Pet Stores in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 45391CA / RETAIL TRADE IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• DellaCamera, C. (2022, February). Small Specialty Retail Stores in Canada. CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 45399aCA / RETAIL TRADE IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Madigan, J. (2021, January). Premium Pet Food Production in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT OD6157 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database
• Ross, G. (2021, July). Dog Walking Services in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT OD4350 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.

 

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Packaged Facts. (2022, November). Canadian Pet Market Survey 2022. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2022, August). US Pet Market Focus: Pet Store and Pet Specialty Retailing. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2021, December). US Pet Market Focus: Pet Product Retail and Internet Shopping Trends 2021. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2021, March). Pet Products and Services: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2022, September). Pet Populations and Ownership Trends in the US, 6th edition. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2021, February). US Pet Market Focus: Mass Market Channel Shoppers. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

Mergent Online

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Provides access to US and international public company data. This database also contains data on companies that were acquired, went bankrupt, liquidated or merged out of existence from 1995 forward. Users can compare companies and export data into programs like Excel.

Demographic Data

The resources listed in this section will help you identify population characteristics, and help you develop your customer profile. This research will also help you identify geographic areas where the largest number of your potential customers live. This can be very useful when determining a location for your business, and also when formulating your marketing strategy. Don't forget that trade associations and trade journals collect information about customers and can be great information sources for this area of your research.

 

Statistics Canada Data | Formerly known as CANSIM, Statistics Canada's key socioeconomic database is updated daily. It is free to search the data tables.

 

The Daily - Statistics Canada

The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.

• Expected changes in spending habits during the recovery period

 

Canadian Household Spending - Statistics Canada
Statistics Canada is the national statistical office. The agency ensures Canadians have the key information on Canada's economy, society and environment that they require to function effectively as citizens and decision makers.

This table provides statistical information about household expenditures by Canadians broken down into a variety of categories. You can refine the table by region. You can view the full list of data tables here. 

 

Census Profile - Statistics Canada

Provides Canadian community profiles from the latest Census of Canada. These profiles are very useful for comparing statistics on different municipalities or regional districts. Includes details on family characteristics, primary language, mobility, educational attainment, marital status, labour force activity, earnings, and mode of transportation to work.

 

 

Socio-Economic Profiles - BC Stats

The socio-economic profiles consist of charts and tables for the various regional districts, health areas, college regions and school districts. Each region contains a map, demographic profile, economic hardship, labour market structure, education concerns, crime, health problems, children at risk, and youth at risk. The profiles are presented in a format that allows comparison to other regions in the province and to BC overall.

 

Your Target Market

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Packaged Facts. (2022, September). Pet Populations and Ownership Trends in the US, 6th edition. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Packaged Facts. (2021, February). US Pet Market Focus: Mass Market Channel Shoppers. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

Passport GMID (formerly Global Market Information Database)

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff or faculty member you can access this resource. Please note this is not available for walk-in library users.

Passport GMID, produced by Euromonitor, is an integrated information system providing business intelligence on country economies and demographics, consumers, lifestyles, companies and industries. 

• (2022). Pet Care in Canada. Passport GMID. Retrieved from Passport GMID database.
• 2022, December 13). Inflation Surge: Pet Care. Passport GMID. Retrieved from Passport GMID database

WARC: World Advertising Research Center

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

WARC has case studies from major companies and advertising agencies, as well as articles from leading advertising journals and unpublished papers. It also includes company profiles, advertising spending statistics, and demographic and economic data.

• (2021, April). A casual flirtation or a committed relationship? Assessing the post-pandemic stickiness of product subscriptions. Research on WARC. Retrieved from WARC database. 
• (2014). Pet Humanisation: The trend and its strategic impact on global pet care markets – executive briefing. Euromonitor Strategy Briefings. Retrieved from WARC database.

 

Public Opinion Polls

Ipsos

Links to Canadian, U.S. and international polls. Includes polls on consumer goods.

Roper Center for Public Opinion

Preserves the data from polls conducted by many leading survey organizations for the use of researchers, students, and journalists. Includes a section on how to analyze polls. Only for those affiliated with UBC.

 

Primary Research

The main point of this guide is to introduce you to a wide range of secondary market research resources but keep in mind there is great value in analyzing other information including:

• Advertising, blogs and sales brochures
• Your personal network and employees
• Direct observation, focus groups and interviews with potential customers

The Daily - Statistics Canada

The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.