A new relationship with Age Group Ltd. and Petsmart!
You may have heard in the media that Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia has entered into a relationship with Age Group Ltd. to manufacture, market and sell pet-care products, which will be sold through PetSmart, Inc., the largest specialty retailer of services and solutions for pets. The line will include a wide range of pet accessories, including apparel, collars, leashes, bedding, grooming supplies, toys and more. You can expect to see the first of these products sometime next year.
I have always loved having a lot of pets – dogs, cats and birds, and consider them members of my family. It's very important to me that domestic animals be well fed, well groomed and well cared for, and I have always prided myself on the good health and happiness of my pets. I look forward to working with Age Group and PetSmart to provide other pet owners with the types of Martha Stewart-designed products that will keep pets happy, safe and healthy. Enjoy these photos of my appearance on CNBC's Power Lunch talking about this development. My dogs, Francesca and Sharkey, accompanied me to the show and have blogged about it today, as well. What Martha Stewart pet-care products would you like to see on the shelves at Petsmart?
1 Francesca and Sharkey were bathed and dressed very fashionably for their appearance on CNBC's Power Lunch.
2 Sharkey and Franny were drawn to the very colorful peacock logo.
3 Here are the girls anxiously on their way into the television studio.
4 Upon entering the building the Frenchies were dazzled by the sapphire-blue flooring.
5 They're always so happy to see Mary Curran, my hair and makeup artist.
6 Franny making friends with Karima Greene - producer of the segment
7 Apparently, Francesca thought she needed attention to hair and makeup - of course, I had already beautified her that morning.
8 The Frenchies are always so inquisitive about electronics, and this state-of-the art control room was no exception.
9 The dogs were very well-received by all employees at CNBC.
10 Bill Griffeth - co-host of Power Lunch - coming over to meet Sharkey and Francesca.
11 As usual, the dogs were very well-behaved on set.
12 Charles Koppelman - our chairman and I, being interviewed by Michelle Caruso-Cabrera - Power Lunch co-anchor
13 It's true, I am mad about pets!
14 It's an exciting outlook - 81% of pet-owners will increase pet care spending!
15 We also talked about some of our products which are current hot-sellers, such as our popular Halloween decorations and my newest book, Martha Stewart's Dinner at Home.
16 Dennis Kneale - Power Lunch co-anchor - CNBC Media and Technology Editor - paying up on a bet, made with Charles, that Francesca and Sharkey would not sit still on their podium during air time.
Hi Martha,
good luck for your new relationship with Age Group Ltd. and Petsmart!
I don't have animals but love them very much. I read the post of Francesca and Sharkey about the show on CNBC...they are so cute and funny!
All the best
Daniela
Posted by: Daniela | October 23rd, 2009 at 4:52 am
Martha I can't tell you how happy I am that you are finally getting into the pet product line. I love shopping for my dogs, who I think of as my kids, and I'm excited to see the products that your company will be putting in PetSmart. I must say that store does need help. I use to shop at PetSmart but the quality of the clothing and the selection of food is not what I like. I've been shopping at Jakes Dog House however will go back to PetSmart to check out your line.
Best of luck with the new project.
Ann
Posted by: Ann | October 23rd, 2009 at 7:28 am
Martha,
Congratulations on your new endeavor with PetSmart! and Age Group Ltd!! We are excited in our household with three dogs!! Martha, Bentley and Olive can't wait to try on the new clothes line and see the crafts projects!
will you have products in the line for pet travel? We are looking for car seat covers that you can wash?
As always, thank you for thinking of our pet's well being.
Wishing you much success in your new relationship.
Love,
Paula M.
ps. absolutely love your new book Dinner At Home. Plan to make a lot of these recipes!!
Posted by: Paula M. | October 23rd, 2009 at 8:28 am
I bet you can come up some really cute doggy coats. Looking forward to seeing your new pet line!
Posted by: Lynn from For Love or Funny | October 23rd, 2009 at 8:37 am
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Dear Martha,
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I'm always willing to contribute to your efforts within the animal industry.
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"We recognize Martha Stewart's world size heart toward the animal kingdom. We need her to carry animal advocacy into perpetuity, to lead the pet industry to its finest luster."....National Cancer Society for Animals
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Andrea Spencer
CEO/NCSA
hotline@cancer-animals.org
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Posted by: National Cancer Society for Animals | October 23rd, 2009 at 8:38 am
Sounds fantastic! Murphy will be very pleased to get some doggie gear. Maybe down the road there will be some bunny products too? There is such a limited supply for rabbit products I would think it'd be a easy area to cash in on! (my bunny Pancakes made me say that). Congrats on another step forward for the Martha Stewart brand!
Posted by: Kari | October 23rd, 2009 at 9:41 am
Dear Martha! Congratulations on your new relationship with Age Group Ltd. and Petsmart! I am sure your line will be fabulious.
I love Francesca and Sharkey, look so so cute.
Good Luck!
Posted by: Rowaida Flayhan | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:06 am
Dear Martha! Congratulations on your new relationship with Age Group Ltd. and Petsmart!
I am sure your line will be fabulous. I love Francesca and Sharkey, they look so so cute.
Good Luck, wishing you great success always.
Love,
Rowaida
Posted by: Rowaida Flayhan | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:11 am
my son and i moved. he has a new baby girl, very beautiful. i left my addresss with robert at the city police station. you said you'd put out a couple of my product ideas and i'd appreciate you getting in contact with me if you can. it's important. i wish you good luck in everything you do.
Posted by: regina mcquillen | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:19 am
Well done, Martha. Please, please, please, come out with a line of bird cages. It is so hard to find attractive ones that coordinate with home decor. I could just imagine what you and your team would come up with.
Posted by: Wanda | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:23 am
Yes people will take care of their pets if they can afford to. If they can't they try their best (depending on the mental state they are in) to find a way to give the animal something..........
I wish I could say something more postive.
Posted by: Margie | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:33 am
Hi Martha,
I wish you a long successful relationship with Age Group Ltd. and PetSmart. Franny and Sharkey looked very stylish in their outfits on Power Lunch and they behaved so nicely just like they do on your show! I don't have any pets right now but I know people who do so I'll be in that store browsing for sure! Trish
Posted by: Trish | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:37 am
This new relationship is sooo exciting, Martha, and I am NOT surprised at all as you've unveiled this news to us today!
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Because I love you so, (I feel so stupid [mushiegushie], that) my heart is so full today, especially as I viewed the CNBC interview clip. You have come SOOO far, and this/now is THE BEST time ever in your life (in my opinion), with all your alliances/partnerships and q-u-a-l-i-t-y products and branding! You are relating to the average joe (well, mostly 'jane') who works, who juggles work/home life, who has a hungry family and needs to feed 'em fast, who doesn't make endless sums of money, who wants nice things around them and for their family... Life is real and you acknowledge that. You offer an array of products and price lines for the respective consumer. It's surely an exciting time for your company AND for us - those of us who are blessed to know you and about all the wonderful helpful things to make our lives simpler, but richer!
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I could say a heartfelt 'God bless you', but He already has! - and richly, I might add...(but you already know that! [wink] ).
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I wish you continued success, my Martha!
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I do love you!
=^..^=
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"He who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward."--Proverbs 11:18
Posted by: Cindy Bricker | October 23rd, 2009 at 12:07 pm
what i would like to see is an anti-itch shampoo which doesn't dry the skin--the same for a fea shampoo--for my daughter's dog who skin is 10 steps beyond sensitive. he also has very sweet blood when it comes to biting insects. good lucl with your line! guess i will have to start shopping at petsmart now
Posted by: jonquil | October 23rd, 2009 at 2:50 pm
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The show today was great. Especially the segment
with the 'Mushrechaun'.
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My Thought Today.
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Standing looking at a creature of beauty
Exhilarates and fulfills a natural duty.
Appreciating the wonderful feeling it brings
Observing nature pull her magic strings.
0-0
Poised in the paddock eager and alert
Aware of the black stallion that likes to flirt.
They breathe in each other's nose and smile,
Whisper sweet nothings all the while.
0-0
A picture of elegance with oval dark eyes.
Pride of the nomads, their war mares a prize.
Late in the eve' the mares come into the tent
From a tea cup they drink milk, heaven sent.
0-0
Dished face head tapers to a small soft muzzle,
One less rib than other horse types is a puzzle.
Intelligence, grace, endurance and speed,
Tail held high, short back, a noble steed.
0-0
The breed that drinks the wind and floats on air
You guessed, she is my magnificent Arabian mare.
She can gently nibble your collar and tear her eye.
I have promised her to keep and love her 'til I die.
.
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Enjoy your weekend everyone. Be safe. Keep smiling.
Posted by: celia stock | October 23rd, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Thanks for asking! Here is my wish list: healthy herbal shampoo (so I can stop using my Aveda products on my two dogs), healthy,safe pet chew toys tailored to the size of the dog, lo-cal all natural training treats, and, of course collars and leashes-my personal fav's are bright colored, preppy patterns, i.e., polka dots, checks, paisley, holiday...oh, and quality identification tags. I'll be looking forward to the product launch at PetSmart. Best of luck with yet another new venture!
Posted by: lil | October 23rd, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Most of the fun and fashionable products out there are gear to small dogs like yours. I have a 65 pound three-legged rescued pit, and I wish there were more products for dogs his size. It is better for a dog's digestive health to eat with food bowls raised to head level. No store sells a product which dry food can be stored in and the dog can eat on. I, like others I know, have improvised with large plastic storage containers. I would love an attractive and easy to use product, that I don't have to build myself.
-sara
Posted by: Sara | October 23rd, 2009 at 6:51 pm
I love all animals I havea cat as you can tell by my e mail address Good Luck Joe
Posted by: Joe Demanche | October 23rd, 2009 at 6:51 pm
They seem to know they are showbiz dogs and really enjoy it too! So cute!
Posted by: Alyzabeth | October 23rd, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Martha,
I am so thrilled that you have partnered with Petsmart and Age Group Ltd. I have been looking for some really cute doggie clothes for my babies. I would definitely like to season, Easter, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas outfits. I know you will have great success in all that you do. I can't wait for the new line to come out so I can buy my Pepper and Megatron new outfits. Take care.
Posted by: Maranda | October 23rd, 2009 at 10:08 pm
Hi Martha, Thank you for this really fun blog. I love anything that has to do with your animals and their appearance on MSNBC was absolutely fantastic. F&S were so cute and well behaved. I am so happy that you will be having pet products at PetSmart early next year. My little Dudley Do Right needs a new leash, collar, coats that are perfect for cold or wet weather and lots of new toys. I know your new items will make him very happy and me, too. Thank you for doing this and the other products that will be available next year. It was fun seeing you on 'The View' today. Those five ladies certainly are lively at times, but you handled them all very well. Great show again today. Loved the healthy, organic food. I'm all for more of it. Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | October 23rd, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Yay! So very excited about this development. I actually never shop at PetSmart since I get my dog food at a local, specialty pet store. However, I would definitely go to PetSmart to check out your pet line! I would like to request cute clothes and collars that fit dogs that weigh MORE than 30 pounds. There just isn't a lot out there for medium and large breed dogs. Also, dog beds with removable and washable covers. The ones that you can't wash - blech!
Posted by: Diane | October 23rd, 2009 at 11:31 pm
Martha, I agree with the previous comment on bird cages. I absolutely LOVE your canary cage. I truly hope you will consider selling a line of canary cages inspired by the cage you have. Best of luck and keep up the good work.
Posted by: Bobby Conner | October 24th, 2009 at 7:22 am
Martha,
My family and I love the butternut squash and sage lasagna!! Even
my 8 and 5 year old boys love it!! Thanks for the receipe!!
Posted by: Tabitha | October 24th, 2009 at 7:39 am
Martha,
I cannot wait to see the wonderful line of products that are going to come out soon - like me, my dogs are really into fashion. I should note that I have 2 great danes! Please don't forget about the big dogs - they need to look good too!
Let me know when you need fashion models - they are willing and able at your beck and call.
All the best,
LVS
Posted by: Lily Von Schtuup | October 24th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Another successful venture! I don't have any pets but think all pet owners will be delighted to have your lovely products.
Posted by: sherey | October 24th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
Congratulations on your latest alliance - I LOVE Petsmart, they are top-notch. I acquired my most recent feline from a shelter group there, and have used the PetHotel service. How about kitty trees like Vivaldi's (shown in the Cat Photos)? That is a piece of natural sculpture I would be happy to put in my home...not so keen on carpet towers. These would be sustainably sourced, of course :>).
Posted by: Rosa | October 24th, 2009 at 6:26 pm
Congratulations Martha on another collaboration that I'm sure will be successful with you at the helm. It is only natural that you venture into pet care products, given your love for all things living. Best of luck to you.
Posted by: Rebecca | October 24th, 2009 at 11:31 pm
HI
very nice dogs...N" great pictures.
I like it very much.Keep up good work near future.all the best.
niraj.
Posted by: niraj | October 25th, 2009 at 12:16 am
Martha, Congratulations on your new deal w/Petsmart and Age Group, Inc.!! I have a seperate issue and I'm begging you for your HELP! I'm having an issue w/a certain hospital here in Pittsburgh in regards to NOT allowing my Service Dog into their hospital after just about 2 yrs. & many hospital admissions she's been going there! They are breaking ADA and Federal Laws, along w/State & Local Laws. I need ALL the HELP I can get to fight for my Shih-Tzu/Bishon Frise! The person from Patient Relations told me there's no way she's a Service Dog because she's for one NOT a German Shepard, Lab or Golden Retriever. I've called the ADA and they told me that Dutchie IS considered a Service Dog! I've shown papers to these people stating the LAWS! I've asked them to put it in writing stating they are telling me NOT to bring my Service Dog and that she's NOT a Service Dog and they REFUSED, as so did the Attorney they referred me to!! PLEASE HELP me w/a Support System. I'm a very sick girl w/many health issues! My doctor even called them and told them that I'm coming there w/my Service Dog and that she is needed! They told my doctor that they have policies and she's not certified! They know that I've told them she is. Its the LAW that I do NOT have to show any "proof" of a Certificate/Training. Its by the word of the Handler. Can and will you HELP me and Dutchie??!! PLEASE!!!! THANK-YOU! Sonya n Dutchie
Posted by: Sonya Issa | October 25th, 2009 at 3:11 am
Martha and company, please, how about some tastefully colored dog bowls in neutral (your) colors?? The ones in pet stores are always red, bright blue, and are just plain ugly. How about some tasteful dog beds? The ones I get are pretty ugly (crazy prints, bright colors), so I always have to sew covers for them. I have this stuff all over the house, and it would be nice to have something not so garrish.
Posted by: leef | October 25th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Age-related vitamins (not tablets) for pets. I can't find vitamins for my cats on any supermarket pet food/product shelves.
Posted by: kel | October 25th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Martha! Your partnership with Petsmart isn't a good thing..it's a GREAT thing!
As someone with 8 cats (and yes, one is named Martha Stewart), I spend a LOT of money at Petsmart (and I am a stockholder as well). I can't wait to buy the MSL pet items so my cats can be more stylish and comfortable than they already are! As for items, I'd like to see cat dishes that don't move, nicer looking litter pans, cat play towers, food stools, and cat accessories (brushes, beds, litter scoops, etc), all with those wonderful MS colors. Congrats again, and Gabby, Piper, MARTHA, Checkers, Patty, Target, Doris and Pip and I can't wait!
Posted by: Jeff | October 25th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
I'm so excited! This made my day! I love Martha "goodies" , Francesca and Sharkey , and Petsmart!
My 3 amigos will be so happy!
Carla
Posted by: Carla Martin | October 25th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
Good morning Martha,
Congrats on your new relationship with Age Group Ltd.
I would like to see a line of Francesca and Sharkey products. They are celebs and they work very hard. Calendars, notecards, holiday outfits, and so much more should be in their line.
I also like the idea of washable covers for beds. And designer bird cages are in demand.
Posted by: Gloria Brown, Winterport, ME | October 26th, 2009 at 7:41 am
I'm delighted to see you joining up with PetSmart! Enjoyed seeing the photos of the doggies--they're certainly poised pups.
I agree with earlier posts regarding
--quality bowls in neutral colors
--collars in the MS fashion
--bird cages (I don't even own a bird but would love to see them!)
--attractive litter pans (they all seem to be slate grey, maroon or boring beige)
and
--quality pet tags--the ones in the automated machines are moving away from classic metal to cheesy plastic things that say "diva" and such on them. yuck. How about a MS automated machine with tags with the MS look to them?
I'll add my own requests too:
--Outdoor bird supplies
--Kitty water fountain that is attractive and practical in a space-saving way. I'd like to use one (well, my CAT would like to use one! LOL) but they take up so much space on the floor.
--Knitting patterns for dog/cat sweaters
Thanks for listening Martha (and Martha's staff). Best wishes with the newest endeavor.
Posted by: Christine Epperson | October 26th, 2009 at 5:05 pm
Hi Martha, I would love to see some high quality canned and dry cat food. Something with no by-products. I know in the States you have alot of choices. Here in Canada, not so many. I have looked everywhere for products recommended online to no avail. Hope you can make it happen!!
Posted by: Lisa Stacey | October 26th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Martha, I saw your article on your chow,Im looking to perchase one, I had to put my dog down three years ago, Sheba was fourteen, I loved her, and would like to know the name and area where I can find one, that you would recemend. thank you
Posted by: joycepalma | October 29th, 2009 at 10:56 am
I farm in the willamet vally in western oregon. I am a 5th generation farmer and the 6th and 7th generation are living on the farm I grew up on. we raise veg. grass seed and filberts. we were happy to hear of your trip to Oregon, wwhen, or where will we read more about your trip to Oregon and what you think about oregon hazelnuts, filberts. Thank you roger and brenda fitts
Posted by: roger fitts | November 4th, 2009 at 11:52 am