Brazil: BRF sees Q2 gains in pet segment

A couple of years after flirting with the possibility of divesting its pet portfolio, Brazilian food giant BRF has announced positive results for the business in the second quarter. The pet food segment experienced an 8% annual increase in its active customer base. 

Although the São Paulo-based company says that the arrival of new customers had a positive effect on sales volume and revenue, it did not disclose the figures. 

Overall, BRF reported a net profit of R$735 million ($134M/€115.8M) in Q2, a 33% drop year-on-year attributed to “the increase in operating and financial expenses.” 

According to its management report, investments in the pet sector involved the implementation of the Enterprise Resource Planning system (SAP), which led to “significant progress in the areas of integration and value generation, with a strategic focus on supplies, industrial operations and logistics.” 

Investment plans

BRF informs GlobalPETS that its growth plans for the pet segment primarily focus on 2 pillars: expanding its international presence in the medium term and investing in the natural, premium and cat food segments.

Over the next 2 years, the company plans to expand its overall offering to 30 markets (in addition to the 20 in which it already operates), with pet brands included in this strategy.

BRF states the research and development (R&D) team’s efforts align with trends observed in both the Brazilian and global markets, notably the growth of the feline population and the demand for natural products, reflecting the humanization of pets. 

“These trends have guided our investments in production capacity and the development of new products, especially in the wet food and Super Premium Natural segments. This is guiding the company’s R&D efforts to expand the offering of specific cat foods.”

Strengthening brands

BRF’s pet product offerings comprise premium, natural and standard food, featuring 20 brands, including Faro, Gud, Biofresh, Three Dogs and Cats and Gran Plus.

According to the company, the feline portfolio had a pronounced relevance in the quarter through increased visibility and exposure of its products, “which boosts consolidated profitability.” 

BRF invested in promoting its pet brands through both digital channels (with a focus on premium and natural products) and within the veterinary sector, by participating in the industry event Cat Congress, “the largest feline-focused congress in the country.” 

Pet operations 

BRF was formed in 2013 through the merger of Brazilian food corporations Sadia and Perdigão. It entered the pet segment in 2021, when it acquired the pet food brand Mogiana Alimentos and manufacturer Hercosul.

In 2024, it produced 9,000 tons of pet food across its 5 factories, with 4 located in Brazil and 1 in Paraguay. In addition to its domestic operations, the company also reports exporting to more than 20 countries. 

The year was marked by investments in snacks, wet food and the expansion of cat products.