South Island's Pet Central in Liquidation: multiple branch close, staff layoffs

South Island pet store Pet Central, which includes dog grooming and dog day care services, has gone into liquidation.

Staff members received a text message late last night by owner Matthew Pizzo, who bought the company in April last year.

“This is a difficult text to write, but I think not a surprising one for you to read. As of 9:00pm this evening, Sunday 6th of August 2023, Pet Central has entered liquidation.

"I’ve been working tirelessly with our solicitors at Wynn Williams & our advisors at BDO to find a partner to sell the business to - including our competitors without success. I have engaged Brenton Hunt with Insolvency Matters to lead the liquidation process.”

Stores affected include shops in Queenstown, Timaru, Hornby, Shirley, Papanui, Kaiapoi and Moorhouse Ave.

The online retail store has also folded.

Customers received a text message on Monday morning saying "unfortunately, we are notifying you that Pet Central has made the difficult decision to close our doors starting this Monday, 7 August 2023. Please do not attend any scheduled bookings as they have been cancelled. The team at Pet Central would like to thank you for your loyalty and wish all the best for you and your furry friends.”

An employee, who chose to remain anonymous, said there were signs the company was struggling.

“The stores were set unrealistic sales targets, and none of the shops could ever meet them.

“But we were continually reassured that everything would be fine. In truth, Matthew's financial management was fraught with difficulties. He often made impulsive decisions, such as his unexpected sponsorship of the Crusaders this year” the staff member said.

Further evidence of the company's financial woes came to light when the Papanui branch was served with papers.

“The landlord visited the store, demanding overdue rent, and handed papers to a shocked staff member.”

Last week, the Timaru branch closed after staff decided to cease working there.

“It’s been a hell of a week,” the staff member said. “Customers have abused staff for not having any stock. There are still live animals at the store, and no one really knows what’s going on.

“Staff were still going into the store today to let pet owners know; otherwise, they’re going to turn up with their dogs and not know what is going on. It’s shocking, really.”

The liquidation has resulted in job losses across multiple branches, including six doggy daycare staff at Papanui, two retail staff, two groomers, three staff at Hornby, two at Moorhouse, six at Shirley, two in the Queenstown store, and several administrative positions.

On Monday, the Pet Central website was inactive and all of the company’s social media account had been scrubbed.

Upon receiving the bad news, Papanui customer Victoria paid tribute to a staff member at the store.

“We wanted to share our gratitude for Sophie-Jayne’s exceptional grooming skills for our Border Terrier, Winston. Her passion and care for her craft is evident, and her expertise in hand stripping left Winston looking stunning. Sadly, with the closure of Pet Central, we’ll no longer have the privilege of Sophie-Jayne’s services and she’ll be sorely missed.

Sophie-Jayne, you’re an incredible groomer, and we’re thankful for the impeccable grooming you provided us. Hopefully we’ll find out where you move on to so we can book in again”

The Liquidator’s first report was due to be released on the Companies Office website on Friday.

In a statement, sent to Chris Lynch Media Pet Central owner Matthew Pizzo said “Pet Central has long prided itself on providing expert advice and quality pet foods and products to pets and pet owners in Canterbury. 

“Sadly, we have chosen to close our doors as we can no longer keep up with inflation, ever increasing wholesale costs, and the all too familiar and continuing squeeze on Kiwis’ disposable incomes. 

 “The future of New Zealand’s pet retail, much like the grocery industry, now rests in the hands of a few major players with scarce room for family-owned independents. Economies of scale and the resulting differences in buying power have made it impossible to compete with the two majority Australian owned retail market share leaders.

 “As we navigate these challenging times, we have prioritised staff wages and ensured that they have been paid in full.  

Pet Central wishes to thank all our loyal staff, customers, and four-legged friends. Thank you for your support, kindness and well wishes during this difficult time.”