Dane Creek Capital is pleased to announce the acquisition of 93% of the share capital of Wodema Industries, a leading manufacturer of soft chew pet treats. The transaction was completed via Dane Creek's majority-owned subsidiary, United Raw Pet Foods. Wodema is the maker of its house brand, 'Kettle Craft', kettle-cooked soft treats. In addition, the company produces 'Jay's Soft & Chewy Big Bits' and 'Tid Bits', as well as the 'Jay's Soft & Chewy My Mighty Wolf' and 'My Mighty Lion' lines. All treats and soft chews are made in small batches at the Wodema manufacturing facility in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Founded in 1996 by Colleen and Wolf Thoma, Kettle Craft has become one of the most trusted brands of treats and soft chews in Canada and a growing brand in the United States. Produced in small batches in purpose-built kettles using traditional European cooking techniques, the treats and soft chews are a popular choice of owners of both dogs and cats. All Kettle Craft treats are hand-made using the finest locally-sourced natural ingredients and simmered for hours before being cured, creating a unique taste and texture experience. Kettle Craft treats and soft chews can be found in pet specialty retailers across Canada and in the United States, online at Chewy.com.
'I am delighted to be announcing the addition of Wodema to the United Raw family,' said Mark Warren, chairman & CEO of Dane Creek. 'Colleen and Wolf have worked tirelessly to create one of the most respected brands of treats and soft chews in Canada and, working with their team, we look forward to expanding the reach of the brand across our pet food and pet supplement operations'.
Wodema operations will continue to be based in Kelowna, B.C. In addition, to support the growth of its own Kettle Craft brand, Wodema will continue to produce other well-known brands, like Jay's Soft & Chewy products. No financial details were provided.
'In looking for a buyer for our business, it was important that we find one committed to building on what we have achieved and is also committed to supporting the local community here in Kelowna,' said Colleen Thoma. 'After 26 years in business, this is a very big step for us, but one that we are excited to be taking nonetheless. Mark and the rest of the Dane Creek team have made the transition very easy. They have exceeded our expectations. We have no doubt that Kettle Craft will continue to thrive and expand throughout North America. We look forward to seeing their new ideas for Kettle Craft come to fruition.'
Wodema represents the 19th acquisition or investment in the pet industry made by Dane Creek or via its majority-owned subsidiary, United Raw, since October 2017. According to petfoodindustry.com, trailing twelve-month sales of pet treats to the end of August 2021 grew by 13.7%, outpacing sales growth of pet food.
