PetSmart opens, ALDI continues construction

Pets can now meander a new store in Mount Pleasant: PetSmart.

Since opening on Aug. 27, PetSmart Presentation Manager Morghan Brassard said business has exceeded expectations.

“Business has gone above and beyond what was expected,” she said. “We are completely excited. Everyone has just welcomed us with open arms.”

Brassard said the company chose to expand to Mount Pleasant, 4218 E. Bluegrass Road, because of the growing community and local, devoted customers.

“It’s a great place. We’re for helping the animals and as well as the pet parents,” she said. “It’s amazing to see people and pets leave happy.”

In addition to pet beds, pet food, toys and treats, PetSmart offers services such as pet grooming and training, as well as pet adoptions every weekend.

But new business also means new competition as to where pet parents travel in the city. PetSmart joins RedBird Feeds and Pet Supplies, 1210 E. Pickard St., and Soldan’s at 1721 S. Mission St.

RedBird owner Mystie Beckwith said so far her company hasn’t noticed a difference in sales, which she believes can be attributed to the company’s high-quality products and long, local history.

“We try go be really invested in the community,” she said. “That’s what you do when you have a passion.”

Beckwith said since the opening of PetSmart, customers have given the 23-year-old business more positive feedback.

“The feedback really thrilled me,” she said. “It’s just different. We get to know our clients and our pet’s names. It’s like a family.”

Right down the street from PetSmart, ALDI Food Market continues construction at the corner of Bluegrass Road and Encore Drive, near Wal-Mart and Menard’s.

Customer Service Representative Marcy Hafner said construction is progressing as scheduled, and is slated to open late fall.

“Barring any construction delays, the store is scheduled to open in early November,” Hafner said.