How We Helped a California Pet Store Boost Cash Flow by $13,000 a Year

Running a small business comes with big challenges, and pet stores are no exception. From managing inventory to caring for loyal customers (and their furry friends), business owners often find themselves stretched thin. For one California pet store, the added burden of high card processing fees and a costly lease was draining profitability. That’s where Commerce Solutions stepped in—helping the owner save money and unlock new growth opportunities.

The Challenge

The pet store owner had been tied to an unfavorable lease agreement and was also dealing with sky-high credit card processing costs. Each month, these two issues combined to eat away at hard-earned revenue. While the business had steady customer traffic, profits weren’t keeping pace, leaving little room for reinvestment.

This small business needed relief—not just from fees and contracts, but also from the cash flow strain that made it harder to plan for the future.

The Commerce Solutions Approach

When the pet store partnered with Commerce Solutions, our team immediately got to work reviewing their lease agreement and payment processing setup. Through careful negotiation, we were able to secure a lease buyout that saved the owner $700 upfront—money that could immediately go back into running the business.

Next, we tackled the processing fees. By analyzing the store’s transaction history and renegotiating with payment providers, we reduced their card processing billing by 40%. This wasn’t just a one-time savings—it translated into consistent cost reductions month after month.

The Results

The impact was remarkable. With lower fees and better terms, the California pet store saw an increase in cash flow of over $13,000 annually. That money went directly toward growing the business, from stocking more premium pet supplies to investing in marketing efforts that brought in new customers.

The owner described the experience as a turning point: instead of being weighed down by hidden costs and restrictive agreements, they now had the financial flexibility to focus on what mattered most—serving their customers and their pets.

Key Takeaways

• Negotiation pays off. Even small changes, like a lease buyout, can provide meaningful savings for business owners.

• Processing fees matter. By lowering card processing costs, Commerce Solutions helped free up thousands of dollars each year.

• Cash flow creates growth. With $13,000 more in annual cash flow, the pet store was able to reinvest and strengthen its business for the future.