Kormotech Ventures Expands Global Footprint
Ukraine’s top pet food producer, Kormotech, has launched Kormotech Ventures in London to venture into foreign markets and support potential pet food startups. They’ve recently acquired a majority share in Rocketo, a UK-based organic air-dried dog food brand. Kormotech’s CEO, Rostyslav Vovk, emphasizes the company as “a family-owned business, we are committed to adding value to our partners by sharing our manufacturing and supply chain expertise and the potential of our industry-leading talent, which will be shared at the Kormotech Ventures level.”
The company will target innovative pet care companies in Europe and the U.S., prioritizing early-stage investments. Additionally, the company will take on project management as the primary shareholder. Kormotech’s core operations will continue to revolve around their flagship brands, primarily expanding in Central and Eastern Europe.
Despite facing challenges last year and ongoing geopolitical issues, Kormotech managed to expand sales to 39 countries, a substantial increase from 19 countries five years ago. Their ambitious goal for 2023 is to achieve $150 million in annual revenues, surpassing the $124 million from the previous year. Export sales are projected to rise from 22% in 2022 to 30% in 2023, with a targeted range of 60% to 70% by 2028.
Vafo Group Advances in Sustainability and Production
Czech pet food manufacturer, Vafo Group, continues its expansion after acquiring Pooch & Mutt. They’ve introduced advanced technology in their Chotoviny wet feed factory, streamlining production with automated packaging and a new canning line. Additionally, Vafo is making substantial strides towards recyclable packaging, covering over 70% of their products, aligning with their sustainability strategy.
Vafo is also investing in Estonia, focusing on the development of freeze-dried technology at their facility.
Healthybud’s Superfood-Based Dog Treats
Canadian pet food brand, Healthybud, is set to launch a line of superfood-based mini training treats for dogs. “The Healthybud team has been hard at work crafting the best possible training treats and we’re so excited to finally be releasing them — our first new product launch in two years,” explained Dana Ben David, co-founder and creative director. “We previewed the Mini Training Treats at SuperZoo last month, and everyone went wild for them” Healthybud’s product range includes superfood-packed treats, meal toppers, and freeze-dried raw food for dogs, currently available in around 600 North American stores.