Premiere Pets Supply-Mike Palmer

premier pet logo

It was 14 years ago when my vet’s assistant recommended Premiere Pets in Beverly Hills, Michigan.  I walked in and met Mike Palmer, a driven, customer service focused, local pet store owner. Mike is passionate about serving his community, and helping his customer’s needs, wants, and desires for their animal care.

My Personal Resource

When I needed a pet-sitter, I turned to Mike. When I looked for a trainer, again I sought his advice, because when Mike speaks – I listen. His word is trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable. However, it doesn’t stop there. I have participated in fund-raising events and I can always (without a doubt) count on Mike, not just for his donation, but for his input. He has positioned himself as an expert in the pet industry! I have also (with honor), introduced Mike to others in the industry as a source of reference. I always share my business ventures with Mike. He makes himself available and is supportive. Mike, I thank you so much for your valuable input.

Family Owned

Mike has expanded the business from a six thousand square foot store to ten thousand five hundred along with three more stores in Rochester Hills, Livonia, and Novi. Mike has a 50/50 ownership and a hands-on partnership approach with his partners. He discusses day-to-day operations and visits his stores regularly. Mike is very busy, but he always makes the time to be available as much as possible.

I want to express, Premier Pet Supply is not a chain store, they are a local family owned business, providing opportunities in so many ways. There are animal rescue adoptions in the store, holiday photography with your pets (proceeds go to non-profits), and school visits to teach the compassion and responsibility surrounding pet ownership. Mike has always been supportive of local charities and organizations – especially those involving the benefit and welfare of animals and community events. However, there is more: Mike leads and teaches our future leaders – teens – how to serve and be great employees. These kids look at you, talk to you and they are not on their electronics. Mike teaches them to be leaders; this is priceless!

It’s Like Coming Home

Upon entering the store, you’ll be greeted by the staff, and while shopping in the aisles you’ll be asked if you need help with anything. You are treated like family, and this doesn’t surprise me one bit because this is what Mike represents.  (Remember, young teens, are here working part-time and going to school.) Entering Premier Pets is like coming home. It is just like stepping into the positive zone of shopping for your pet’s needs.

Mike’s uncle started this business 25 years ago, taking a huge risk. So much has changed in the pet industry over the years. I think Mike’s uncle was on to something. Mike joined him 23 years ago and has not stopped since.

What Makes Premier Pets so different?

Well, I will let you in on a secret Mike shared with me several years ago. He said, “Kim, I want all of my employees to enjoy coming to work. I want them to provide customer service like this is their own store.” (Now I am paraphrasing a bit here, but I think you get the point.) Remember, Mike employs high school kids, college kids, and of course adults that are there for career opportunities that will grow into partnerships or management roles. I love shopping and knowing names of the staff, and not having to beg for help. Shopping there is so pleasurable, and I must say this is because of Mike.

The store is stunning. You’ll find everything you need for your dog along with bird feed, crickets for your reptiles, and so much more. You can participate in a do it yourself dog bath (you’ll find amazing rooms with everything at your disposal!) to visiting with the store mascot, Winston the tortoise. There are bunnies, gerbils, and fish, OH MY! Your pets are welcomed at all times as long they are on a leash. The experience is second to none.

In July, the annual Premier Pet Supply Customer Appreciation Day happens. I remember when this was a one-day event, it’s now a three-day event and every person in the Metro-Detroit area and further needs to come and attend. You’ll find vendors, music, a petting farm, face painting, food, and 25% off of everything in the store! It is one big soiree! (Find details on the website.)

In the midst of a huge expansion, Mike has taken care of his beautiful family: Rita, his wife of 16 years; four children, Ava 14, Brooke 12, Fiona 10 and Roman 10. You may ask (at least I do), how he does it all? How can anyone achieve so much? Mike told me the following is what contributed to his success:

  1. Family, family and family support! Period!
  2. A big huge fat ‘why,’ passion, a drive to the big ‘why!’ Vision, mission a boatload of integrity, drive, positive attitude and to serve.
  3. Systems, processes, planning, strategizing and negotiating towards a win together end game.
  4. Amazing partners (a few I have known for a long time and have worked alongside Mike).
  5. The staff that has been invested in. Staff that have been trained to lead, teach, and grow.
  6. Community!

Need I say more?

I personally cannot write enough about Mike Palmer. Yes, Premier Pet Supply is a brick and mortar store, but with Mike and his team leading at the helm, it becomes far more than a store. Shopping at Premier Pet Supply becomes a family experience. I will not go anywhere else.

Please visit Premier Pet’s website and take a moment to listen to Mike’s sincere story. Mike Palmer, you walk your talk and lead with your heart!

Mike Palmer

Peace,

Kim