Regular Pet Valu customer Christina Murie with store’s manager George Zhang, who stands to lose his job with store closure. Courtesy photos.
Anxious New Toronto pet lovers are banding together to try and halt the closing of a popular pet care store.
Customers of the Pet Valu store, at 2734 Lake Shore Blvd. W., at First Street, have started an in-store and online petitions to try and prevent the closure of the long-time pet food and accessory store.
The store has been at that location for more than 30 years, and has been managed by George Zhang for the past 12 years.
Dozens of outraged pet lovers have signed the petitions to keep the doors open and the well-respected Zhang behind the counter. The store is expected to be shut later this year.
“The store is deeply involved in our customers’ daily life,” Zhang told Pet Valu officials. “It’s a well-established space in our community for people to go and bond with fellow pet owners in the community.”
Pet Valu manager George Zhang with his best friend outside his store which is slated to close leaving many pet lovers at a loss.
Zhang wrote that the closure will have a ‘significant measurable impact to many customers’ who regularly visit as part of their routine. The outlet has won a GEMS Award from MP James Maloney for outstanding store.
He said the community is growing and the Pet Value franchise stands to benefit, as it is the only pet care store in the area.
Pet Valu customer care official Johnett Ricks in a note to Zhang said she couldn’t reveal the decision that lead to the closure of the store due to confidentiality reasons.
One of the petition by residents to keep the popular store open after 30 years in business.
“We do sincerely thank you for taking the time to share your concerns regarding the closure of the Lakeshore & Long Branch location,” she said. “We are still very sorry to hear that your favourite location is closing, and do appreciate you reaching out in support of keeping this store open.”
Ricks said customers can still shop online. The company has also opened another store in Long Branch at 3590 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
Pet lovers complain there are no other pet friendly stores within walking distance, and now have to drive to purchase their pet care products.
“I am in that store a couple times a week,” said animal lover Christina Murie. “The people are great and there is a great selection and it is walking distance.”
Another pet lover said the store is busy and the only one in the community for the hundreds of pet owners in search for pet food or accessories.