In March 2025, ADM officially opened its first wet pet food manufacturing plant in Mexico, marking a significant step in its strategy to expand local production and meet rising demand in the country. The facility, located in Yecapixtla, Morelos, began operations in late 2024 following a $39 million investment.
Yecapixtla, situated in central-south Mexico, already hosts one of ADM’s dry pet food facilities. The new plant represents an expansion of the company’s existing operations in the region and reflects a broader effort to shift from imported products to domestic manufacturing. Until recently, ADM imported its wet food products —specifically pouches under brands like Ganador — from France. With the new site in operation, the company expects to meet at least half of Mexico’s wet food demand with local production by the end of 2025.
ADM is third largest pet food player in Mexico
ADM’s presence in the Mexican pet food market is well established, and it currently ranks as the third-largest player by market value, according to estimates from Triplethree International. The new facility is expected to accelerate the company’s position specifically in wet food, potentially placing it among the top three in that segment alone.
The wet pet food category has gained momentum in Mexico ahead of many other Latin American countries, where the segment is still in early stages of development. This growth is driven by changing consumer behavior, increased focus on pet nutrition, and the convenience offered by single-serve pouch packaging. ADM’s expansion taps directly into this trend, signaling a long-term commitment to the category.
Though ADM had entered the wet pet food market in Mexico prior to building this plant, the investment suggests the company is catching up after some delay in establishing local infrastructure. The decision to scale production now reflects both market opportunity and the operational benefits of reducing import reliance.
As demand for wet food continues to rise, the new Yecapixtla facility positions ADM to respond more competitively and efficiently. By leveraging its existing logistics and production base in the region, the company is strengthening its role in one of Latin America’s most dynamic pet food markets.
Iván Franco is the founder of Triplethree International and has collaborated on hundreds of research projects for several consumer goods industries.