Pure Treats Inc., makers of PureBites, has agreed to acquire Primal Pet Foods from private equity firm Kinderhook Industries, adding Primal's manufacturing facilities in Abilene, Texas, U.S., and Montrose, Colorado, U.S., to its operations.
The combined entity will operate as the Pure Treats Primal Pet Group, with manufacturing assets that include two facilities in Texas, a co-packing facility in Montreal, Canada, and a raw bones manufacturing facility in Montrose.
Primal was founded in 2001 by Matt Koss and was among the earliest brands in the raw and freeze-dried pet food categories. Kinderhook Industries acquired the company in 2020. PureBites was founded in 2005 by Barry and Marc Cathcart.
"This is a transformational moment for PureBites and we're thrilled about the potential this brings to our brands, customers, and loyal pet parents," said Cathcart, president of PureBites. "Primal was one of the first brands in the raw and freeze dried categories and we are thrilled to be able to have them join the PureBites family and continue to bring the best food and treats to pet parents across the globe. Together, PureBites & Primal will establish our group as an unquestioned leader in the raw and freeze-dried space."
Focus on independent pet specialty retail
Cathcart said distribution will be focused on independent pet specialty retail. "Our goal with this acquisition is to bring Primal back to its roots of exceptional food for pets delivered on time, with excellence and available exclusively through local neighborhood pet stores and our current loyal customers," he said.
Koss, who remains connected to the brand he founded 25 years ago, welcomed the change in ownership.
"The return of Primal to private ownership is very positive for the brand, consumers, customers and employees," he said. "The goals and authenticity of PureBites, their team, and their ownership offer Primal an opportunity to continue its mission started 25 years ago."
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
