Kinderhook Industries is expanding its presence in the pet food and treats space through the acquisition.

John S. Forrester, former Managing Editor

August 26, 2021

2 Min Read
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Image courtesy of Kinderhook Industries

New York City-based investment firm Kinderhook Industries announced the purchase of freeze-dried and raw frozen pet foods manufacturer Primal Pet Foods this month, expanding its foothold in the pet food and treats industry.

The company will combine Primal Pet Foods with its portfolio company Prairie Dog Pet Products a maker of freeze-dried, smoked, and natural dog treats, and the Humalayan and Holistic Hound brands to form a new entity, Primal Pet Group (PPG).

“We are incredibly excited to bring together Primal Pet Foods and Prairie Dog Pet Products under the Primal Pet Group umbrella,” Kinderhook Managing Director Tom Tuttle said in a release. “Primal is well-positioned for growth with leading brands, an experienced management team, and Kinderhook’s significant investment in an expanded state-of-the-art manufacturing footprint that creates the capacity to meet growing customer demand for minimally processed products.”

Primal Pet Group will be helmed by the newly named CEO Timothy W. Simonds, who formerly occupied the role of CEO at Merrick Pet Care. Over the last three decades he has held a number of senior positions in brand strategy and marketing for United Airlines, Procter & Gamble, General Electric, and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern.

“Research proves that minimally processed diets using quality ingredients help improve the health and well-being of our pets and the market continues to demand fore of these premium products,” Simonds said. “It is an exciting time to join Primal, as we bring together these trusted brands with a shared commitment to significantly improving the lives of pets.”

Mike Kelly was put in charge of product and process innovation as Primal Pet Group’s director of Research and Development and Technical Services.

Area Development reported Thursday that Primal Pet Group started work on $31.6 million expansion project at its manufacturing facility in Abilene, TX.

About the Author(s)

John S. Forrester

former Managing Editor, Powder & Bulk Solids

John S. Forrester is the former managing editor of Powder & Bulk Solids.

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