PetCo Group, a producer of premium pet foods based in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), and Vafo Group, a European market leader in the premium pet segment, have recently announced a new strategic partnership. The agreement brings together the two family-owned businesses with a combined annual turnover exceeding €600 million (US$650 million).
According to the companies, the partnership aims to leverage synergies within the two companies, expand their respective product portfolios, and strengthen their market presence. PetCo Group will continue to operate independently in Vienna under the leadership of its founders, Stefan and Katharina Miklauz.
In a joint statement, the companies noted the alliance marks an important milestone for them, with PetCo Group bringing unique expertise in the distribution and marketing of pet products. Together, the companies aim to further expand their market position in the DACH region while promoting sustainable growth.
“When it comes to our strategy for growth in the DACH region, the partnership with PetCo Group makes perfect sense,” Pavel Bouška, chairmain of the board of Vafo Group, said. “Together, we can leverage synergies to further strengthen our innovation capabilities, bring us even closer to our customers, and enrich our portfolio with strong brands.”
According to Stefan Miklauz, managing director of PetCo Group, the new alliance will help shape the future of the pet industry: “With Vafo Group, we’ve gained a strong strategic partner who shares our values,” Miklauz said. “Not only will this partnership help us expand our presence in the DACH region, it will also allow us to establish new standards for the pet industry as a whole.”
Katharina Miklauz, cofounder of PetCo Group, said she sees immense product development potential. “Our brands WOW, DOG’S LOVE, CAT’S LOVE, and PURE NATURE have always been synonymous with trust and the highest levels of quality,” she said. “I’m especially excited about Vafo Group’s vast expertise and decades of experience in product development. Without a doubt, the new partnership is going to fortify our commitment to our customers by keeping us at the cutting edge of product innovation and quality.”
Both companies emphasize that the partnership is founded on shared values regarding corporate governance, product quality and sustainability, characterized by a long-term vision and a deep understanding of the needs of pets and their owners. This cooperation will enable both companies to combine their expertise, enter new markets, and further strengthen their existing customer relationships.
According to Petfood Industries Top Pet Food Companies, Vafo Group is a privately owned company that develops, produces and distributes premium and super premium pet food and supplements to more than 85 countries worldwide. The Czech company, which also offers private-label services, produces more than 200,000 tons per year. Recent growth is partly attributable to strategic acquisitions.
Serving the needs of pet owners throughout Europe, PetCo Group offers the brands WOW, DOG’S LOVE, CAT’S LOVE and PURE NATURE. PetCo Group Austria is a leading company in the premium pet foods sector in the DACH region.
Adapted from a press release.