ZooRoyal

The story of ZooRoyal begins not in 2008, but further back in 1986, when Jürgen Grohs and Jürgen Heuser founded a company called Aquatop. What started as a specialist tip for aquarium enthusiasts gradually expanded its product range. This growth led to the launch of an online shop in 2004, which was then rebranded and relaunched as ZooRoyal in 2008. The company quickly established itself in the German pet supply market, becoming the third-largest online retailer in the space. A pivotal chapter in ZooRoyal's journey occurred in 2014. The REWE Group, a major German retail and tourism cooperative, acquired a majority stake in the company. This move was driven by REWE's strategy to expand into the fast-growing online pet supplies market. Co-founder Jürgen Grohs remained with the company, highlighting a blend of the original startup spirit with the strategic power of a large corporation. Under REWE's ownership, ZooRoyal has evolved into an omnichannel business. While strengthening its e-commerce foundation, the company has also integrated its products into REWE's various physical stores and launched its own standalone brick-and-mortar locations. This strategy leverages the logistical expertise and retail footprint of its parent company, positioning ZooRoyal for continued growth in a competitive market.