Headlines

Merrick Pet Care, Zuke’s Pet Nutrition Announce Merger

Published

6 years ago

January 18, 2018

PETS+ Staff

Both are part of Nestlé Purina PetCare.

Zuke’s Pet Nutrition and Merrick Pet Care announced that they are merging.

The companies said in a media statement that they’re “joining together to build one organization to better serve pet specialty and to realize Zuke’s growth potential among pet parents and their active, healthy dogs.”

Zuke’s, a maker of dog treats and supplements, is currently based in Durango, CO, and will continue to have a presence there as an innovation hub. Other business functions will be consolidated within Merrick Pet Care, which is based in Amarillo, TX, and makes natural and organic pet food, according to the statement.

Both Zuke’s and Merrick are part of the Nestlé Purina PetCare Co. Merrick continues to operate independently from Purina. The integration is expected to be completed in the spring.

“When you take our strong legacy and deep expertise in natural treats plus Merrick Pet Care’s premium, fast-growing brands, you have a terrific recipe for success in pet specialty,” said Brent Gleckler, general manager for Zuke’s. “We’re looking forward to this next phase of our growth.”

Greg Shearson, CEO of Merrick Pet Care, said his company is “excited to have the Zuke’s business join our portfolio.”

“This is a great fit as both Merrick and Zuke’s were built by passionate founders determined to provide optimal nutrition for pets,” Shearson said. “Together, we can better meet the growing demand for the highest quality pet food and treats.”

NASC Media Spotlight

At first it was just an idea: Animal supplements needed the same quality control that human-grade supplements receive. But that was enough to start a movement and an organization —the National Animal Supplement Council — that would be dedicated to establishing a comprehensive path forward for the animal supplements industry. In this Media Spotlight interview, NASC’s president, Bill Bookout, talks to PETS+ interviewer Chloe DiVita about the industry today: Where it’s headed, what’s the latest focus and why it’s vital to gain the involvement of independent pet product retailers.