title: Competing with the super stores.
abstract: Competition between veterinary practices has never been more intense. Consumers today are not looking for businesses that are open limited hours, selling outdated products and services, and operating in worn-out facilities in out-of-the-way locations. Consumers today are generally looking for the following eight things: (1) value; (2) choice of products/services; (3) new facilities and items; (4) convenient location; (5) long business hours; (6) one-stop shopping; (7) no hassles; and (8) friendly, personal, knowledgeable people to help in a clean, bright environment. As the veterinary medical profession responds to changing client needs, the following 10 survival strategies can be used: (1) focus on satisfying the client, (2) study successful practices, (3) regularly analyze management information, (4) improve marketing skills, (5) improve client value, (6) uniquely position the practice, (7) eliminate waste, (8) regularly make improvements, (9) support change, and (10) get started. Your practice will continue to grow and prosper even in the shadow of a megapractice if you practice will a positive attitude and provide quality services that are valued and needed by your clients.
authors.affiliation: School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70803, USA.
authors.forename: D M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: McCurnin
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D004465:Economic Competition; D006762:Hospitals, Animal; D008389:Marketing of Health Services; D009817:Office Management