Introduction to the Pet Food Market and Current Economic Influences
As household spending decreases and pet adoption rates decline, the pet food market begins to exhibit signs of moderation in its growth, projecting a 3.9% increase for 2025 compared to the previous year, according to Paola Delgado, Marketing Director of the Pets category at ADM.
Market Growth Projections and Consumer Behavior
Delgado presented the findings from the “Pet Insights Report and Flavor & Color Outlook” study, highlighting that today’s consumers are more cautious with their purchases. As a result, they seek smaller or larger package sizes without compromising “good nutrition for pets.”
“Just a few years ago, we experienced double-digit growth volumes, but this volume is also beginning to decelerate because urbanization no longer allows for owning non-medium or small pets. This doesn’t necessarily mean there are fewer pets, but the reality is that consumption is decreasing,” she explained.
Delgado also pointed out that in Mexico, around 90% of households already have at least one pet, indicating high category penetration and subsequently slowing growth for the category.
Economic Factors and Consumer Choices
The current economic situation has prompted pet owners to optimize their spending and seek a better balance between quality and price, according to Delgado.
Even if they are already convinced of a brand or product, consumers now look for the best value across various channels.
Pharmacies have recently emerged as a popular sales point for pet food, she added.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current growth projection for the pet food market? The projected annual growth rate for 2025 is 3.9%, down from previous years.
- Why is the pet food market showing signs of moderation? Decreased household spending and lower pet adoption rates are contributing factors.
- How have consumer behaviors changed? Today’s consumers are more cautious with their purchases, seeking smaller or larger package sizes without compromising pet nutrition.
- What percentage of Mexican households own pets? Approximately 90% of Mexican households have at least one pet.
- How have economic factors influenced consumer choices? Pet owners are optimizing their spending and seeking a better balance between quality and price.
- Which sales channels have gained popularity for pet food? Pharmacies have recently become a preferred point of sale for pet food.
