Two months ago Netflix announced plans to expand its online 
streaming service to nearly all of Latin America, possibly tripling the company’s customer base. By 2013 it projects the $7.99 a month service will be a profitable enterprise, largely due to demand in Mexico and Brazil.
And for 100 pesos, also about eight dollars, Fluffy Shower in Mexico City will beautify a pooch in one of its roving pet vans. The basic service includes a shampoo and bows. Red, white and green bows and nail paint have been in high demand of late, on account of Independence Day; pet stores are now rushing to stock up on Halloween garb, according to an article in this week’s Economist.
It’s a broad trend; spending on pet food and supplies in Latin America has risen 44 percent over the past five years, more than any other region. (Another regional trend is an overwhelming preference for dogs over cats.) Chile is estimated to have more pet dogs per person than any other country, Buenos Aires is known for its dog walkers, and Mexico is setting itself apart with doggie sombreros and sashes.
With their Netflix streaming service and mobile pet salons, Mexico’s middle class is doing just fine, thank you.
Shannon O’Neil at CFR summarized the aspiration of Latin America’s growing middle glasses as the search for “six C’s”: casa propia, car, cell phone, computer, cable TV and trips to the cinema.
Eyeing recent trends, I’d say they are a struttin’ and a streamin’.
