Rapid Expansion of a Pittsburgh-Based Company

Pittsburgh, PA, September 27, 2013 --(PR.com)-- The Dog Stop®, a Pittsburgh-based company that operates full-service dog care facilities and employs over 40 people, has announced aggressive plans for the coming year through both company-owned and franchised stores. The Dog Stop®’s expansion comes at a pivotal time. The pet care industry has seen double-digit growth every year over the past five years, ending 2012 at over 60 billion.

The Dog Stop opened its doors in 2009 with owners and founders Jesse Coslov and Chris Kane as its only employees. After less than 4 years, The Dog Stop® is preparing to open their third Pittsburgh location in the Strip District. This location will house 15 new employees and new corporate offices for their recently-formed franchise company, The Dog Stop Franchising, LLC.

The 10,000 square foot dog care facility will target customers living and working downtown and in the Strip District. The franchise company will target all US markets and is negotiating two contracts for Western PA, in addition to already having fielded numerous inquiries for Ohio and other parts of PA.

Leading this expansion program as COO will be Mark Lando, a founder and developer of two Pittsburgh-based companies - The Athlete’s Foot and Sweets from Heaven. Both companies now have over 650 stores throughout the US and seven international markets. Mark has also consulted for franchisees and franchisers of national companies including New Balance, Red Mango, Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Planet Smoothie, Stride-Rite, Sweet Factory, Good Feet, and the Pittsburgh-based Vocelli Pizza.

Also joining the team is Sara Ruth, as Director of Marketing and Customer Service for both local and franchise stores. Sara has worked with numerous Pittsburgh businesses and organizations including Philip Pelusi Salons, Capristo Salon & Wellness Spa, URBANpolish, Avnet: HP Services, as well as having founded her own business, Sara Lucille Marketing & Graphic Design.