From Petfood Industry:

The dog and cat food industry started 2017 with several mergers and acquisitions, reported Petfood Industry. One of the first was the announcement that WellPet acquired WHIMZEES, a Netherlands-based maker of natural dental chews for dogs.

WellPet acquired raw pet food brand

Last year, WellPet, a manufacturer of natural and pet health-focused pet foods, was also one of the first pet food companies to announce mergers and acquisitions. In January 2016, WellPet acquired Sojos, a family-owned company offering a line of raw, freeze-dried pet food for dogs and cats.

While WellPet is based in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, USA, the company said Sojos would continue to be based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Sojos was founded in 1985.

WellPet said there would be no changes in the day-to-day operations of either company and that Sojos co-owners Ward and Maggie Johnson would help with the transition.

WellPet acquired dental dog treat brand

WHIMZEES dental chews join Wellness, Old Mother Hubbard, Eagle Pack, Holistic Select and Sojos in WellPet lines of premium, natural pet food and treat brands.

“This is a major growth opportunity for WellPet, and an exciting one,” said WellPet Chief Executive Officer, Camelle Kent, in a press release. “Natural dental chews today represent a significant and fast-growing segment of the treats market, and WHIMZEES is an established leader in this category.”

WHIMZEES will continue operations in the Netherlands. The company holds patented designs for a variety of shapes, including a hedgehog, dog bone, alligator and cross bone. WHIMZEES dental treats are currently available in the US through PetSmart, Petco, Pet Supplies Plus, Pet Valu and also available at independent pet retailers and online retailers.

WellPet to acquire Sojos

WellPet L.L.C., manufacturer of natural and pet health-focused pet foods, has acquired Sojos, a family-owned company offering a line of raw, freeze-dried pet food for dogs and cats.