Chico’s pet shop closed but might resurface in a new location
After 10 years and three different locations in Barcroft Plaza, Chico’s Natural Pet Market has closed for good. But it’s not going away forever, as the owner, Danielle Areco, is searching for a new location.
Areco spent the store’s last day, Sunday, June 9, hosting an ice cream party for dogs with big markdowns on pet supplies for humans.
Areco has clashed with the landlord, Federal Realty, for years, fighting against big rent increases and eviction attempts. When she was forced to relocate to a smaller space, Federal Realty failed to make the promised renovations.
Related story: Pet store facing eviction reaches out to the community
“Since the relocation, it’s clear they didn’t want me to be here,” she says. “It’s become toxic. There’s always a dark cloud hanging over me.”
Everything must be out of the store by June 29. Areco is planning an online auction for the leftover merchandise and furnishings.
But, it’s not all over for Chico’s.
The Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC), a D.C.-based nonprofit organization that assists the owners of small businesses, is helping Areco find another commercial space and is considering providing a loan.
“We really want to help her because we see a lot of potential,” said Valeria Lopez, a business coach at LEDC. For one thing, pet supplies are a growing industry. For another, Chico’s stayed in business for 10 years, while just 30 percent of small businesses last that long and most don’t make it to five years.
Lopez is helping Areco with business coaching, financial advice, and development of a communications strategy.
Areco seeks help from anyone in the community with professional expertise in commercial real estate, accounting, or marketing. Contact her at 202-243-8484.
Chico’s new location, wherever it might be, will continue to offer pet adoptions – for dogs and reptiles, as well as cats. That’s a key priority for Areco.
And Areco is still going to host the pet contest at the 2024 Taste of Annandale on Sept. 21.
Oh I hope she finds someplace hospitable. Chico’s is such an asset to the community. How about the Tobacco Lux building?
That would be nice!
great suggestion!
Chicos and Danielle are a uniquely wonderful experience. Good luck to her and her staff !
Such a community minded person and spirited soul. She has tried so hard and deserves to succeed.
Danielle is beautiful inside and out. She deserves community support.