Independent Retailers vs. Big Box: Why Both Belong at Connect Pet Trade Expo

In today’s pet industry, independent specialty and big-box scale aren’t opposites—they’re complementary forces. At Connect…Canada’s Pet Trade Expo, we bring together retailers of every size to explore trends, build partnerships, and grow stronger together.

Independent Retailers: Agility & Community Connection

Independent pet stores play a vital role in their local markets, offering handpicked products, knowledgeable staff, and personalized service. At Connect they’ll find:

• Access to Innovative Brands
  Exhibitors like Smack Pet Food and Bold by Nature showcase raw, natural, and gently cooked options, exactly the kind of differentiated offerings that appeal to discerning customers.
  

• Direct Vendor Relationships
  Smaller businesses thrive on strong partnerships. Connect gives independents the chance to meet brand owners face-to-face, ask questions, and explore flexible terms not often available through large-scale distributors.
  

• Retail-Focused Learning
  Educational sessions designed for smaller operations provide tools for in-store marketing, customer loyalty programs, and staying competitive in an omnichannel world.

Big Box Retailers: Scale & Strategic Growth

Larger retailers attend Connect to source efficiently, evaluate brands at scale, and explore technology to streamline operations. For big-box buyers and franchises, Connect offers:

• Retail Tech & POS Solutions
  With exhibitors like FranPOS, multi-store retailers can explore enterprise-level platforms that support inventory control, reporting, and seamless customer experiences across locations.
  

• Scalable Product Lines
  Companies such as SquarePet and Land and Sea are geared toward broader distribution, offering well-supported product lines ready to meet national demand.
  

• Franchise & Expansion Opportunities
  From private label offerings to new category partnerships, Connect provides access to brands and services that align with long-term growth strategies.

Where It All Comes Together

What makes Connect unique is the diversity of retail experiences all in one place. Independents and chains share space, learn from one another, and connect directly with suppliers. The result? Real-time feedback, unexpected collaborations, and a stronger industry ecosystem.

Just a Few Exhibitors You’ll Meet at Connect 2026

• Bold by Nature – Gently cooked and raw pet nutrition designed for optimal health and performance. https://boldbynature.com/

• Smack Pet Food – Canadian-made raw dehydrated pet food with a focus on clean ingredients and sustainability. https://www.smackpetfood.com/

• SquarePet – Functional, vet-formulated diets ideal for pets with specific health needs. https://www.mysquarepet.com/

• FranPOS – A cloud-based POS and operations platform designed for retailers of all sizes, with scalability in mind. https://franpos.com/

• Land and Sea – Creators of innovative pet products inspired by nature and backed by a commitment to quality. https://landandseapets.com/
  

The Bottom Line

Connect  is more than a trade show, it's the industry’s meeting point. Whether you’re just starting out or leading a nationwide chain, Connect is where you’ll find the brands, tools, and ideas to drive your business forward.

Ready to join us?
Contact [email protected] to learn more.