PetCo and VAFO Group unite for future of pet market

Two prominent players in the pet food industry, PetCo and VAFO Group have formed an alliance, bringing together two companies with a combined turnover of over 600 million euros. The alliance aims to combine companies’ expertise, enter new markets, and strengthen their existing customer relationships.

PetCo and VAFO Group unite for future of pet market
From left to right: Stefan Miklauz, Pavel Bouška, and Katharina Miklauz
Credit: PetCo Group

PetCo Group, one of the leading producers of premium pet foods based in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), and VAFO Group, one of the European market leaders in the premium pet segment, have announced a new strategic partnership. The agreement brings together two successful family-owned businesses with a combined annual turnover exceeding 600 million euros, providing a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the DACH region. The partnership aims to leverage synergies within the two companies, expand their respective product portfolios, and strengthen their market presence. PetCo Group will continue to operate independently in Vienna under the leadership of its founders, Stefan and Katharina Miklauz.

UNITED FOR THE FUTURE OF THE PET MARKET
The alliance between PetCo Group and VAFO Group marks an important milestone for both companies, with PetCo Group bringing unique expertise in the distribution and marketing of pet products. Together, the companies aim to further expand their market position in the DACH region while promoting sustainable growth.

Pavel Bouška, Chairmain of the board of VAFO Group, explains: “When it comes to our strategy for growth in the DACH region, the partnership with PetCo Group makes perfect sense. Together, we can leverage synergies to further strengthen our innovation capabilities, bring us even closer to our customers, and enrich our portfolio with strong brands.”

According to Stefan Miklauz, managing director of PetCo Group, the new alliance will help shape the future of the pet industry: “With VAFO Group, we’ve gained a strong strategic partner who shares our values. Not only will this partnership help us expand our presence in the DACH region, it will also allow us to establish new standards for the pet industry as a whole”.

Co-founder of PetCo Group, Katharina Miklauz, sees immense product development potential: “Our brands WOW, DOG’S LOVE, CAT’S LOVE, and PURE NATURE have always been synonymous with trust and the highest levels of quality. I’m especially excited about VAFO Group’s vast expertise and decades of experience in product development. Without a doubt, the new partnership is going to fortify our commitment to our customers by keeping us at the cutting edge of product innovation and quality”.

Both companies emphasize that their partnership is founded on shared values regarding corporate governance, product quality, and sustainability, characterized by a long-term vision and a deep understanding of the needs of pets and their owners. This cooperation will enable both companies to combine their expertise, enter new markets, and further strengthen their existing customer relationships.