Designing Products For A Recession Proof Market: How Much People Love Their Pets

Is there any such thing as a recession proof niche market? One industry that comes pretty close, is that furry little creature in the corner staring at you as read this article. Yes, that�s right, your pet. It doesn�t matter if you�re a cat lover, a dog lover or if you�ve crossed over to cute potbellied pigs. Your critter and everything involved in his or her care, is part of the pet care industry; a market that continues to outperform most other the retail sectors.

According to the 2009-2010 National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet, which equates to 71.4 millions homes. People spend more on their pets than the retail jewelry, candy, hardware, and toy industries.

No doubt we're all spending more on our pets, as they've become a bigger part of our families. We find comfort in social activities that involve pets and family, and even during tough economic times we still pamper our pooches. So is this still a growth industry for creative product designers?

There are still opportunities for artisans, manufacturers and designers who focus

on pet grooming supplies, gifts, toys and apparel that are reasonably priced. Luxury pet goods have been hit the hardest since the recession began. In this economy, the average pet enthusiast will purchase a personalized picture frame or pet bowl before they purchase jeweled pet anklets and gourmet doggie cakes. So if you�re a creative professional still looking to design unique pet products, make sure that your design aesthetic incorporates personalization and value.

A successful designer should consider testing some dog and cat designs as part of their business model. Consider some of the products that are sold in the baby gifts market, but for pets. For example, personalized baby blankets are common gifts. What about personalized pet blankets? They will sell if they�re unique, creative and reasonably priced. I�ve seen it in my own business. Just check out the online retailers of these products.

Designs for a Pampered Pooch or Cool Kitty? That decision is yours, but design with a market in mind, the ever growing and every evolving pet care industry. As a result, 2010 may prove to be your best year in sales ever!

Heidi Moledante is a pet enthusiast, interior designer and event planner. Heidi recommends www.frameitgifts.com to many of her friends and clients.