The retailer, which has almost 460 shops currently, said it was particularly interested in opening in urban areas like London.

The retailer said the rise in home working meant more people were buying pets at a younger age.

Lyssa McGowan, who took over as chief executive 12 months ago, said the opportunity offered by “Generation Z” was there for the taking.

Total revenue at the business was up 6.6% to £1.4 billion in the year to the end of March. Underlying pre-tax profits came in at £136.4m – up 4.8%.

The record performance came despite the business facing soaring energy costs and having to pay higher wages.

Membership of its VIP loyalty club scheme, which offers discounts and tips, has grown to 7.7 million.

The firm said the scheme was still attracting large numbers of new consumers, with around 24,000 puppy and kitten owners signing up each week.