Irish Dog Foods’ plan to expand the business internationally

Pet food manufacturer Irish Dog Foods aims to double its production capacity nationwide after announcing a 3-year-long expansion program through a €20 million ($21.4M) investment. 

The company is one of Ireland’s largest manufacturers and exporters of pet food and treats. It will focus on developing a new state-of-the-art production facility in Kildare to meet the increasing domestic and international demand.

Fran Dunne, Head of New Product Development at Irish Dog Foods, told GlobalPETS that the facility will be operational by October 2023.

The company expects to create 150 jobs, 50 of which will be operational roles. The other 100 will comprise business development, finance, management and marketing.

Market expansion 

Outside of Ireland, Irish Dog Foods is the main supplier for major retailers and discounters across the UK.

As part of the production site expansion, the pet food manufacturer looks forward to growing the export business and strengthening its presence in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. 

It also aims to increase its existing presence in the US through a retail deal with Walmart-owned Sam’s Club.

Irish Dog Foods was established in 1985 and currently supplies products to over 40 countries. The firm recently acquired the South African pet food facility Afrique.