Per Lausen celebrates 25 years at Eldorado

This year, Eldorado is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the company's owner and chief executive, Per Lausen. When Lausen joined Eldorado A/S 25 years ago, the company was already a respected Danish family business. Today, under his leadership, Eldorado has become one of Scandinavia’s most influential sourcing and service partners for the pet, aquatics and equestrian sectors, with a footprint extending far beyond its home market. PET worldwide spoke with Lausen and reported on Eldorado many times.

Founded in 1963 in Haderslev by Lausen’s parents Børge and Birgit, Eldorado began its life as a local pet shop. Over six decades later, it has evolved into a multi-brand, multi-category group supplying specialist retailers, breeders and veterinary professionals across Europe. Since assuming overall responsibility for the group in 2008, Per Lausen has played a central role in professionalising operations, expanding internationally and strengthening Eldorado’s position as a value-adding partner to the specialist trade.

One of his most significant achievements has been the continuous modernisation of the company’s logistics and sourcing capabilities. Investments in warehouse infrastructure, including the construction of a 10,000 m² distribution centre and subsequent expansions, have been matched by the introduction of advanced systems such as pick-to-voice technology, which guides staff while picking items. This focus on efficiency has enabled Eldorado to handle a rapidly growing product portfolio without increasing headcount, while maintaining high service levels for customers.

Commercially, Per Lausen has overseen steady and diversified growth. Eldorado today supplies around 250 pet stores in Denmark, alongside equestrian retailers and approximately 1,000 breeders, while exporting to more than 45 countries. The group’s brand and distribution portfolio has expanded to include many of the industry’s best-known names, including Eukanuba, IAMS, Furminator, 8in1 and SmartBones across the Nordic markets. Strategic milestones under his tenure include the acquisition of equestrian wholesaler Three Horses in 2019 and the recent expansion of Spectrum Brands’ dog and cat portfolio distribution into Sweden and Finland.

Equally important has been the development of Eldorado’s subsidiaries, including Akva Stabil and E-Vet, both of which have shown strong growth. Akva Stabil, in particular, has achieved notable success in Eastern Europe with aquariums and shopfitting solutions, reinforcing the group’s reputation for innovation and practical retail support.

Throughout his 25-year journey, Per Lausen has remained guided by Eldorado’s core values of responsibility, community, trustworthiness and innovation. His long-term vision and hands-on leadership have not only transformed a family business into a European player, but have also helped redefine what specialist retailers can expect from a modern sourcing and service partner.