PetSmart to Close More Stores in 2026 Amid Online Shopping Growth
PetSmart will continue closing physical stores in 2026 as consumer shopping habits shift towards online channels. The company is adapting its strategy to focus on fulfillment capabilities and meet growing demand for digital purchases.
PetSmart is set to close additional store locations in 2026, reflecting a broader industry trend driven by the surge in online shopping for pet supplies. Experts note that brick-and-mortar retailers are facing increased pressure from e-commerce platforms that offer convenience and home delivery services for products like pet food and litter.
The company has already begun this transition. In July 2026, PetSmart closed its sole San Francisco store, redirecting its customer base to its Daly City location. PetSmart cited a growing customer preference for online ordering, auto-ship subscriptions, and same-day delivery options as reasons for the closure.
"Closing a store is never a decision we take lightly," a PetSmart spokesperson stated. The company indicated that the decision was made after carefully evaluating various factors, including the location's long-term viability. PetSmart plans to enhance fulfillment capabilities at its Daly City facility to accommodate the increasing volume of online orders.
The pet retail sector is undergoing significant changes. Large chains that historically relied on physical store traffic are now competing with online-first retailers. PetSmart's move to reduce its physical footprint and bolster its online operations aligns with a wider shift in the retail landscape towards digital channels and efficient logistics.