"Our executive team understands that success is more important than control," said Stew Maloney, the company's co-founder and executive vice president. "We have acknowledged our limits and our focusing our skills in order to achieve success."
Planet Dog reports it has been growing fast, with its products sold by more than 2,600 retailers, nearly double the number of its retailers in June 2003. Also, major chains including Petco, Petsmart, Wild Oats and Anthropologie are currently testing the Planet Dog line.
"We believe that expansion into the larger chains is a move in the right direction and a well-funded one," said Alex Fisher, Planet Dog's co-founder and chief creative officer. "Optimizing sales through channels of all sizes will enable us to be more generous and effective in our philanthopy."
The company donates a percentage of its annual profits to its Planet Dog Philanthropy to support animal welfare, education and environmental projects. Recently the company launched its Ribbon Ringo pet toy, which it hopes will raise $100,000 for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation by next spring.
Franklin brings more than 30 years of business experience with both small and large companies. He has held management and executive positions, including chief executive officer and vice president of sales and marketing. In one executive position, he was part of a team that took a company through the initial public offering process and for another he launched a new division.