PETCO Vision/Mission Statement
PETCO's vision is to best promote, through our people, the highest level of well-being for companion animals and to support the human-animal bond.
PETCO's strategy is to provide a broad array of premium products, companion animals, and services, and a fun and exciting shopping experience.
PETCO's value proposition to the pet parent/customer is provided through friendly, knowledgeable associates in convenient, community-based locations.
HistoryWalter Evans founded PETCO as a mail order veterinary supplies business in 1965. The original name was UPCO, United Pharmacal Co. In 1976, our first retail store opened in La Mesa and was instantly a success. Our aim back then was to buy quality pet and veterinary supplies and sell them to directly to animal professionals and the public at discount prices. In 1979, UPCO became PETCO. A decade later Brian Devine, our current Chairman, joined PETCO to lead us to the next level of success.
PETCO Timeline
| 1965 |
First PETCO store in San Diego |
| 1980 |
First PETCO store opens outside San Diego |
| 1988 |
Acquisition of WellPET and The Pet Dept. boosts PETCO over 100 stores. PETCO expands into Washington, Oregon and Texas markets |
| 1990 |
Brian Devine joins PETCO |
| 1992 |
First East Coast stores open |
| 1994 |
PETCO goes public |
| 1995/1998 |
PETCO acquires 21 chains totaling over 200 stores as the company expands its national footprint. |
| 1999 |
PETCO Foundation formed |
| 2000 |
PETCO goes private in leveraged buyout, hits $1 Billion in sales. PETCO breaks 500 store threshold |
| 2001 |
Millennium store concept introduced |
| 2002 |
PETCO returns to stock market, PETC on the NASDAQ. PETCO operates 565 stores in 42 states |
| 2003 |
PETCO and the San Diego Padres announce naming of the San Diego downtown baseball park, PETCO Park |
| 2004 |
PETCO Park Opens |
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