The continued economic situation here in Sweden is seeing sales of pet food and many other pet supplies stall in the country. A new market study predicts that the 2012 volume of sales will be at a slower rate than in the previous year.

The report has been compiled by market research group Euromonitor International.

All pet foods affected

The report demonstrates that sales in food are declining across all categories and sectors. There is predicted to be a significant drop in bird food sales, as number of bird owners in the country continue to drop.

There has also been a shift with many people replacing premium purchases for mid-level and economy-level brands.

Organic food

However, premium food is maintaining a level in some respects, with owners wanting to treat their pets from time to time, and feeling they can get better value for money.

Organic food for pets has yet to take off in Sweden though, despite many owners preferring the more natural foods themselves. This is largely because of the increase price of such products, driven by a lack of supply of organic meat to produce dog and cat food.

The belief that no real benefits to the animal will be had by a switch to organic foods is also holding back the market.

Competition and changes

There is a clear shift to using locally sourced and unprocessed foods in some areas though, whilst companies showing to make products in Sweden are also benefiting from changing attitudes. However, global brands continue to dominate the Swedish market.

Another substantial growth area has been with online pet shops. Aided by the convenience they offer, as well as the ability to often offer superior products at lower prices, internet retailers are instantly attractive to consumers.

Over the next few years, the downturn could reverse somewhat though, as the economic situation improves.

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