Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, manufacturer of the Rachael Ray Nutrish line of pet food and treats, acquired Triple T Foods of Frontenac, Kansas, USA, a formerly family-owned, superpremium pet food co-manufacturer that employs approximately 200 people. Terms of the pet food industry market transaction were not disclosed.

With this pet food company acquisition, Ainsworth strengthens its manufacturing capacity and capabilities to support future growth of the Nutrish brand while maintaining and building upon Triple T's current co-manufacturing relationships, according to a press release.

Industry executives remark on pet food company acquisition

Jeff Watters, president and CEO of Ainsworth Pet Nutrition, said in a press release that Triple T Food's location in the central United States provides convenient access to key pet food ingredients within the nation's grain and protein belts. Triple T has been a co-manufacturer for Ainsworth for more than a decade.

"This acquisition is a logical evolution in our supply chain, creating an even more robust national footprint for Ainsworth that accelerates our five-year strategic plan to become the leader in superpremium pet nutrition," Watters said.

Triple T Food President Kurt Terlip said in a press release, "Over the past 15 years, Triple T Foods has produced products for Ainsworth Pet Nutrition. This pet food company acquisition has been about securing a good fit for both organizations - from an operations and supply chain perspective as well as a cultural standpoint.”

Mr. Terlip will step down from his position as president of Triple T Foods, however Ainsworth will maintain a strong management team from Triple T, including Mr. Terlip's son, Colin, who will manage all operations in Frontenac, Kansas, USA.

About Triple T Foods

Founded in 1992, Triple T Foods has been manufacturing a spectrum of dry pet foods, including superpremium brands. Triple T Foods' manufacturing facility is SQF Level 3 and HACCP certified.