The Nutriment Company taps into Poland’s pet market with new acquisition

The Nutriment Company (TNC) has acquired Zoo Factory, a Polish distributor of premium pet treats and food. It will be its first operation in the country, which the company describes as “one of the most dynamic and fastest growing in the European Union.”

“Entering Poland is a major milestone for us – and a powerful way to close an exceptional year of growth,” says Anders Kristiansen, CEO of TNC. “Zoo Factory brings well-known brands, a trusted presence in grocery, and a highly motivated leadership team with extensive market expertise.”

The distributor’s portfolio includes over 250 products, spanning cat litter, treats, cleaning products, accessories, toys and pet food under 2 brands: Hilton and Animals. The firm also produces private-label products across the same categories and has been operating for over
25 years.

This is the tenth deal this year and the second this month, just after the announcement of the purchase of Dutch pet treats distributor and developer Antos in mid-December.

Company integration

TNC will gradually integrate its product portfolio into Zoo Factory, beginning with supplements that are increasingly in demand among Polish consumers.

Eventually, the company will also incorporate selected Zoo Factory products into its own facilities to boost efficiency, consistency and innovation.

The Polish player will retain its current leadership team, including Managing Director Sławomir Musur and Purchasing Director Beata Bonalska, to guide the integration.

“With TNC’s support, we can expand our offer, strengthen our innovation pipeline and respond even more effectively to the changing needs of the Polish market. This partnership gives our brands room to grow in new and meaningful ways,” says Bonalska.

The Swedish producer says that Zoo Factory’s flexible supply network and outsourced logistics will allow it to focus on growth, brand development and customer relationships. “Its strong position in grocery retail will facilitate product expansion into pet supply stores, independent shops and new omnichannel opportunities,” TNC states.

Polish market

According to TNC, Poland’s pet care market has seen significant growth, driven by rising pet ownership, a shift towards premium and natural pet food and increased sales through traditional grocery outlets and online channels.

Poland stands out as a dominant player in the Central and Eastern European pet industries, mirroring trends in Western Europe.

According to statistical data from the European Pet Food Industry Association (FEDIAF), the local pet food market is currently valued at  approximately zł4.9 billion (€1.2B/$1.4B), with projections of annual growth of between 5%-7%.

Latest business developments

The Eastern European country recently made some moves. In October, Polish aquarium equipment manufacturer and pet retail chain operator Aquael formed a strategic cooperation agreement with Plaček Group, the leading pet retail player in Central and Eastern Europe.

Following the deal, the 82 stores under the Kakadu banner in Poland – acquired by Plaček Group in 2014 – were transferred to Aquael.

Earlier this year, Belgian pet food manufacturer United Petfood opened a new pouch factory in the Polish city of Jedlińsk, 90 km south of Warsaw. With an investment of €50 million ($58.4M), the plant produces wet dog and cat food pouches.