Dog food manufacturer Grove Pet Foods has been acquired by food company Cranswick plc.
Grove Pet Foods is a producer of dry dog food under several private labels as well as under its own brands Vitalin (natural) and Alpha Feeds (working dog). The business operates from a purpose-built factory in Lincolnshire, employing a workforce of 100.
Cranswick was formed in the early 1970s by farmers in East Yorkshire to produce animal feed and has since evolved into a firm producing predominantly fresh food, including fresh pork, poultry, convenience and gourmet products for human consumption.
Cranswick chief executive officer Adam Couch said: “I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Grove Pet Foods, a well-invested manufacturer of dry pet food supplying leading brands focussed on the specialist pet retail market. This acquisition represents a platform for future growth in the attractive UK pet food market and diversification into this complementary category for Cranswick. The existing facility has capacity and a footprint for further expansion.
“Grove Pet Foods has built a reputation for high quality products and service that is well aligned with Cranswick. The combined business will benefit from vertical integration opportunities within the group and particularly our fresh poultry and pork businesses. We look forward to building on this and continuing to invest in the product range, facilities and the team over the years ahead.”
John Walgate, managing director of Grove Pet Foods, will remain with the company and continue to lead the business.
