Leading Dog Daycare Franchise Undergoes Major Brand Reinvention

Under New Leadership, Dogtopia Revitalizes Franchise Development
Efforts, Forms Key Partnerships, Revamps Branding and Unveils a New
In-Store Experience

PHOENIX–(BUSINESS WIRE)–#reinvention–This year, U.S. pet industry expenditures are expecting to rise
to an all-time high of $62.75 billion. As the industry continues to
flourish, Dogtopia is preparing for accelerated growth with the help of
a revitalized franchise system. Under a new breed of leaders, Dogtopia
has implemented many new initiatives as the company looks to continue
setting the industry standard among dog daycares three key benefits:
education, exercise and socialization.

Peter Thomas, chairman of Thomas Franchise Solutions, announced the
purchase of Dogtopia in June 2015 and appointed Neil Gill as CEO and
President. Spearheading the brand’s reinvention, Gill brings with him an
extensive background of more than 30 years in retail and franchising
with brands such as Gloria Jean’s Coffee, Pizza Hut and Brinker
International.

“When I came into Dogtopia, I was confronted with the task of making an
already great brand even better,” stated Gill. “Not only was the
existing operating system centered on the safety and overall wellbeing
of dogs, but I quickly learned Dogtopia is comprised of an amazing set
of franchisees who are extremely engaged and passionate. Their insight
and knowledge helped to completely reshape the customer experience.”

A key development in Dogtopia’s new strategy involves an entirely new
look and feel of the company’s branding and in-store experience,
including a new logo, website and interior décor. Created with the three
key benefits of daycare in mind, the updated design was recently debuted
at the new Dogtopia in Commerce, Mich. The updated store design will be
implemented in all future locations.

“Our goal is to create the most exciting day ever for dogs, while
providing pet parents peace of mind that their dogs are in the hands of
a trusted authority,” Gill added. “When we began creating the updated
interior design, we mirrored the quality standards parents would expect
for child care to ensure Dogtopia continues to be the best option for
pet parents. We reimagined the whole process from the perspective of
both the pet parent and pet to create an ambiance unlike any other dog
daycare.”

Since taking over the franchise, Dogtopia has executed several new
initiatives including: employing an environmental biologist,
implementing dog-safe cleaning products and programs, requiring a
dedicated, CPR-trained health and safety officer to be on staff at all
locations and creating an 11-step facility tour to foster complete
transparency among pet parents.

Beyond design and operational changes, Gill has assembled a strong
support team with several key hires, such as Alex Samios as Vice
President of Franchise Development, who has a 25-year proven track
record in franchising. The company has also formed a partnership with
global commercial real estate company Cushman & Wakefield to support the
brand’s aggressive real estate expansion plans. These moves will help
the franchise achieve its strategic growth plan to open more than 400
locations by 2021. With over 40 stores sold and in development in Q1
alone, Dogtopia is poised for impressive growth.

Dogtopia offers a viable franchise opportunity with multiple revenue
channels for daycare, boarding, spa, grooming, retail, training, etc.
resulting in a validated and exciting business model. The company seeks
both individuals and multi-unit franchise partners with proven business
experience looking for a fun and flexible lifestyle.

About Dogtopia

Founded in 2002, Dogtopia is one of the nation’s leading dog daycare,
boarding, training and spa facilities offering an experience
unparalleled in the market. Pet parents have the assurance of leaving
their beloved family members in the hands of trained professionals in an
environment created with the safety of dogs in mind. With 43 locations
across North America, the brand continues to expand through franchising
with successful entrepreneurs. For more information on Dogtopia, visit www.Dogtopia.com
or www.Dogtopia.com/success.

Contacts

Fishman Public Relations
Toni Lewin, (847) 945-1300
tlewin@fishmanpr.com