PetFirst Grows By Integrating Pet Insurance Into Grocery Industry

JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (Nov. 11, 2008) – PetFirst Healthcare LLC is continuing its growth by partnering with the grocery industry to add pet insurance to customer’s shopping lists. PetFirst recently launched a partnership with Topco Associates LLC to make pet insurance available to all 60 member-owners in its network.

“We now have the experience that allows us to help retailers have a turn-key launch of a pet-insurance line that can help them enhance their bottom line and deepen their customer relationships,” said Brent Hinton, PetFirst chief executive officer.

PetFirst insurance covers routine care and medical procedures for dogs and cats, and helps pet owners manage pet expenses and save money. PetFirst works with retailers to customize how the insurance is merchandized. Grocers have used brochures at check-out registers, hang-cards in pet aisles, end-cap displays and free-standing kiosks.

PetFirst pioneered its marketing with retail partners in 2006, launching a program with the Kroger Co., the nation’s third-largest retailer. Over the past year, PetFirst solidified its position as a leading pet insurance partner for retailers, by announcing partnerships with Meijer, Spartan Stores and Big Y Foods, Inc. More Topco member-owners are also interested in signing on. Policies purchased through PetFirst’s retail partners account for a large portion of the company’s growth. PetFirst’s policy sales increased 112 percent from Q3 2007 to Q3 2008. Despite a sagging economy, the pet industry remains strong. The American Pet Products Association (APPA) predicts consumer spending on pets in 2008 will rise 5.6 percent to $43.4 billion.

“Our product works well in the retail sector as part of a financial suite services or as a stand-alone product, that can help stores bolster profit, even when customers are generally spending less,” Hinton said.

AboutPetFirst Healthcare, privately owned and based in Jeffersonville, Ind., has simplified pet insurance through published rates that eliminate the need for detailed medical histories or complicated price quotes. Underwritten by an A+-rated insurance carrier and available nationwide, PetFirst provides affordable healthcare coverage, quality customer service and fast claims processing. Individual and family plans are available to reimburse veterinary costs for dogs and cats. For information visit www.petfirst.com or call 1-855-270-PETS.