Premium natural pet food and treat producer, Assisi Pet Care, has acquired Forthglade.
Founded in 1971, Forthglade is a leading UK premium natural pet food brand, manufacturing ‘minimally processed’ wet and dry dog food from its production site in Devon.
IK Partners acquired Forthglade from Piper Private Equity in August 2020, with current CEO David Cox taking the helm of the Okehampton-based business in 2022.
Since then, the pet food business has established a diverse omnichannel distribution model across major grocery retailers, independent specialist stores, and rapidly growing D2C and online third-party channels. It has also expanded its production capacity and range, launching cold-pressed dry food, treats and supplements.
Headquartered in London, Assisi operates manufacturing facilities in the UK and Poland, serving specialist pet, grocery and e-commerce customers across Europe.
Its acquisition of the Devon-based Forthglade forms part of a plan to strengthen its foothold in premium, natural pet care across Europe and will see it joining a portfolio comprising Burns, Hollings, HiLife, Maced, Pet Munchies, Yakers and NAW. The purchase also marks IK Partners exit from the business.
Commenting on the move, Chris Melander, CEO of Assisi Pet Care, said: “We have long admired Forthglade and the business David and his team have built. To create such a strong brand, trusted by pet owners is a real achievement, underpinned by a passionate commitment to natural, high-quality nutrition. Forthglade is an excellent fit for Assisi, and we are excited to invest behind the brand and the business to unlock its next phase of growth.”
David Cox, CEO of Forthglade, added: “Joining the Assisi family marks an exciting new chapter for Forthglade and is testament to the incredible journey we have been on over the last few years.
“I am immensely proud of how we have developed the business, establishing Forthglade as a trusted leader in premium, minimally processed pet food. None of this would have been possible without the dedication, passion and hard work of our exceptional team.
“Partnering with Assisi provides the strategic support to accelerate our growth and we are all excited about the next stage for the business.”
