If you’re a pet parent who shops online, you’ve likely found yourself wondering about the connection between two of the biggest names in the business. With Amazon’s vast reach into nearly every retail category, it’s a natural question to ask: does the e-commerce giant also own Chewy, the popular pet supply retailer?
The short and simple answer is no, Amazon does not own Chewy. While they are direct competitors in the pet care market, they operate as completely separate companies. The story of who actually owns Chewy, however, is a fascinating one that involves another major retail player.
The Real Owner of Chewy
In 2017, Chewy was acquired by PetSmart, the large brick-and-mortar pet store chain. This was a massive deal at the time, one of the largest e-commerce acquisitions in history. So, when you place an order with Chewy, you are shopping from a subsidiary of PetSmart. This partnership allows Chewy to maintain its unique, customer-focused brand identity while benefiting from the resources of a larger parent company dedicated to the pet industry.
How Amazon Fits into the Pet Supply Picture
Even though Amazon doesn’t own Chewy, it is a major force in the pet product space. Through its Amazon Pets store, it offers a huge selection of food, toys, and supplies, often with the convenience of fast, free shipping for Prime members. This makes Amazon a formidable competitor. The key difference often comes down to specialization. Chewy has built its reputation on exceptional customer service, personalized touches like birthday cards for your pet, and a deep focus solely on the needs of pets and their owners.
Choosing Between Chewy and Amazon for Your Pet’s Needs
So, which one should you choose? The best option often depends on what you value most. If your top priority is speed and you’re already a Prime member, Amazon might be your go-to for last-minute needs. However, if you appreciate a specialized service that feels tailored to pet owners, Chewy is hard to beat. Many pet parents rave about Chewy’s responsive customer service team and their flexibility with returns, which can be a lifesaver if your pet doesn’t like a new food or toy.
While the two companies compete for your business, they operate independently. Chewy remains a standout in the pet niche under the PetSmart umbrella, offering a distinct alternative to Amazon’s general marketplace approach. Your choice ultimately helps shape the competitive landscape, encouraging both companies to keep improving their offerings for pet parents everywhere.
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