KKR acquires Kiwi pet food company Natural Pet Food Group

KKR has acquired Natural Pet Food Group, a New Zealand-based pet food company, from Pioneer Capital and other shareholders for an undisclosed price.

Natural Pet Food Group said that the investment from the global investment firm will be used for backing its global expansion and push forward its goal to reach more customers and their pets across the world with safe and sustainably sourced high-meat pet food from New Zealand.

The company produces natural pet food for dogs and cats under the K9 Natural, Meat Mates, Feline Natural brands.

Natural Pet Food Group’s products are said to be based on beef, venison, lamb, chicken, and a variety of other protein sources, which are infused with fruit, vegetable, egg, mussel, and other natural whole food ingredients.

Established in 2006, Natural Pet Food Group currently caters to customers in different parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, the US, and Canada.

KKR acquires Kiwi pet food company Natural Pet Food Group. Photo courtesy of Mat Coulton from Pixabay.

Neil Hinton – CEO of Natural Pet Food Group said: “My team is excited about the opportunities and connections that KKR can provide. Our business is about providing pet owners with the very best in natural, high-meat nutrition for the four-legged members of their families.

“KKR has an impeccable pedigree in our sector which will help us grow, develop new products and take our brands to new customers and new markets, all over the world.”

KKR will finance the acquisition of the Kiwi pet food company from KKR Asian Fund IV.

Michael Robson – Managing Director of KKR Capstone said: “Natural Pet Food Group is a pioneer in New Zealand’s sustainable pet food industry, with a strongly defined mission and set of values. We could not be more excited to work with Neil and his talented team to support the Company’s operations by leveraging KKR’s experience, network, and expertise to strengthen Natural Pet Food Group’s leadership in key markets and create opportunities in new ones.

“This investment also reflects KKR’s commitment to supporting fast-growing companies in New Zealand that are seeking opportunities to expand into new sectors, verticals, and markets.”