#Japan #Tokyo #Best Company #Pet Products #Munino

Understanding Pet Owners' Purchasing Decisions

In recent years, a significant trend has emerged among pet owners: a heightened focus on the health and well-being of their furry companions. Words like "grain-free" and "no additives" are now commonplace in pet food choices, emphasizing the careful selection that many pet owners are now making. But what about daily essentials such as collars, beds, and care products? How do these crucial items fit into the realm of pet owners' choices? In a detailed survey conducted by Best Company, which operates the pet product brand Munino, insights into the purchasing behaviors and needs concerning pet daily necessities have been unveiled, fostering a deeper understanding of the market today.

Survey Overview

The survey, conducted from February 6 to February 9, 2026, targeted 1,005 pet owners aged between 20 and 60. It aimed to gather accurate data on how pet owners approach purchasing their pets' daily goods and what criteria guide their decisions. The data collection was conducted via PRIZMA, using internet-based surveys.

Key Findings

Triggers for Purchasing Pet Goods

When asked what triggers the purchase of daily pet essentials, the survey revealed that the most common reason was necessity (50.3%). This was followed closely by the desire to bring joy to their pets (44.0%) and replacing old or broken items (32.0%). This indicates that while practicality drives a significant portion of purchases, emotional factors also play a crucial role in decision-making.

Prioritizing Purchasing Criteria

The key factors that pet owners consider when buying pet goods were also assessed. Price emerged as the most important factor (46.6%), closely followed by safety (46.0%) and functionality (44.2%). These findings suggest that pet owners are not merely looking for the cheapest options but are striving to find a balance between price, safety, and practicality for their pets' everyday needs. They seem to emphasize quality in conjunction with reasonable pricing.

Where Are Pet Owners Shopping?

Pet owners were also asked about their preferred purchasing locations. Home improvement stores came out on top, with 54.8% of pet owners utilizing them. This was followed by major e-commerce platforms like Amazon (39.6%) and traditional pet shops (36.2%).
While the physical experience of shopping at home improvement stores is a key draw, aligning with daily shopping routines may also contribute to their popularity. However, specialty e-commerce sites also hold a unique allure for those seeking specific products or larger selections, indicating diversified preferences among pet owners.

Emotional Connections to Pet Products

The survey delved deeper into the emotional connections pet owners have with specific items. The most cherished items were collars and leashes (27.7%), toys (22.2%), and pet beds (21.4%). The significance behind these beloved items stems from the repetitive daily usage and the fond memories associated with them, reinforcing the bond between pets and their owners.

Illustrative Examples

• - Collars and Leashes: Owners often cherish collars that their pets have worn through various life stages, connecting deeply with the memories tied to their appearance and usage.
• - Toys: Many owners recalled toys that their pets favored during their childhood, invoking nostalgia and bonding experiences through playtime.
• - Beds and Linens: The chosen bedding often carries stories of relaxation and comfort, influencing owners' emotional attachments based on their pets' habits and preferences.

The Desire for Variety in Design

An interesting insight emerged regarding pet product design: over half of those surveyed felt that the choices for design and color in pet products were insufficient. This highlights a common desire among pet owners for not just functional items, but appealing aesthetics as well.

When asked what features attract them to specific pet products, respondents placed a high premium on material safety and structure (34.2%), along with the ability to customize items for their pets (24.2%). The desire for unique and varied designs was also reflected, suggesting that pet owners want their products to harmonize with their home aesthetics and personal styling.

Upcoming Highlights from Munino

Taking the insights gained from this survey into account, Munino is set to unveil new products that address both functionality and aesthetic appeal at the upcoming Interpet Tokyo 2026 event. This gathering promises to showcase innovative options catering to these demands.

Additionally, the event will feature special sessions guided by designer Yumi Kashiwagi, emphasizing the practical and aesthetic aspects of pet care products that resonate with today’s owners.

Conclusion

The findings from this comprehensive survey illuminate the evolving landscape of pet product purchasing behavior. While price and functionality remain crucial drivers for pet owners conducting their shopping, the desire for diversity in design and personal expression is gaining traction. This suggests that manufacturers and retailers must sharpen their focus on product aesthetics to meet rising expectations. The relationship between pets and their owners is profound, woven through shared memories, emotions, and experiences that transcend beyond mere transactions.