United Petfood Acquires 50% Stake in German Wet Pet Food Producer SmartPetPro

Belgian-based United Petfood has acquired a 50% stake in German premium wet pet food producer SmartPetPro, marking a strategic move to bolster its European footprint. While financial terms remain undisclosed, founder Dominiek Dumoulin emphasized the partnership as a "natural fit" aligned with long-term growth objectives.

Strategic Expansion in Eastern Germany Amid Pet Food Sector Surge

The deal lays groundwork for scaling SmartPetPro’s Dessau-Roßlau facility, with Lars Oehlmann retaining CEO role alongside co-founders Stefan Pfannmöller and Erich Herrmann, who will remain closely involved in development. This strengthens United Petfood’s foothold in Germany’s premium pet food market, complementing existing operations in the UK, France, and Poland.

Global Footprint: From North America to Eastern Europe

■Canadian expansion in April 2023 via acquisition of Drummondville plant from Legault Group.

■Turkey’s Kırklareli facility, acquired in March, serves as a gateway to Eastern European markets.

■U.S. presence established through 2024 Indiana plant purchase from Wellness Pet Company.

■Over 3,500 employees and exports to 110+ countries underscore international scale.

Defne Aydın Note: This acquisition reflects the pet food sector’s resilience amid inflationary pressures in the Eurozone and global supply chain volatility. Localizing production in Germany could mitigate cost risks, but long-term success hinges on adapting to evolving trade policies and tariff dynamics in key export markets.