BrightPet Nutrition Acquires Raw Advantage Processing

Ohio-based BrightPet Nutrition Group, a manufacturer of premium branded, private label and co-manufactured pet foods, treats and more, has acquired Raw Advantage Processing, an Oregon-based co-manufacturer of freeze-dried and frozen raw pet food.

BrightPet says that the deal enhances its capacity for freeze-dried and frozen pet food, and gives the company a base of operations on the West Coast. The deal is also expected to strengthen Raw Advantage’s product offerings through access to Midwest and East Coast production capabilities in kibble, baked treats and freeze-dried food and treats.

Details of the sale were not disclosed. It is the third acquisition that BrightPet has completed with the backing of A&M Capital Partners ("AMCP").

"We are thrilled to welcome Raw Advantage to the BrightPet family," said Dave Kowal, CEO of BrightPet. "Ryan Minch (Founder and CEO, Raw Advantage) has proven himself to be a skilled operator at the highest level, and Raw Advantage’s consistent ability to deliver premium products that meet the exacting standards for food safety and quality have earned them a loyal customer base and positioned the company as a key player in the industry. Together, we expect to continue to deliver premium products that meet our customers’ high standards, enhance the well-being of pets, and bring joy to their owners."

The acquisition comes as the private label pet industry continues to grow with increased pet ownership. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), the vast majority of U.S. households (70%) in 2022 owned at least one pet.

“As a family-owned business, it was essential for us to find a partner that valued our legacy,” said Minch. “Joining forces with BrightPet gives us the assurance that Raw Advantage will continue to thrive and uphold our commitment to excellence, and we remain laser focused on providing our valued customers with the same high levels of service and product quality that they have come to expect from us. We are excited about the growth opportunities this collaboration brings and the positive impact we believe we can make together in the freeze-dried and frozen raw categories.'