Private equity goes pet

The international pet supplies sector continues on its upward path. More and more pet owners all over the world are ready to spend increasing amounts on ensuring the welfare of their pet, whether fish, fowl or four-legged. This trend is likely to continue in the next few years and may even become stronger. Added to this is the fact that the pet supplies market is only just starting to develop in many countries, and so there is plenty of potential for the sector to grow in the future. The private equity business got wind of this long ago, and a growing number of medium-sized pet product companies are being ac­quired by financial investors, especially in the USA. This could be a disadvantage, but not necessarily. To fuel international expansion, which is a growing imperative in our sector on account of the high investment costs for manufacturing companies in particular, fresh capital is required. Banks are out of the running in most countries as capital investors. Private equity is thus regarded by many in the sector as a welcome alternative. In e-commerce the funding of start-up companies by financial investors has even become the norm. Further investors might get involved in existing pet supplies firms in the next few months; perhaps agreements to this effect will even be concluded against the backdrop of the forthcoming Zoomark International trade fair. The fair takes place in Bologna from 7 to 10 May. Anyone wishing to form an overall picture of the latest trends in the pet sector will have an opportunity at this trade fair, which has developed into an important meeting place for pet supplies companies in southern Europe in particular. In an Interzoo-free year Zoomark International is the leading pet product trade show in Europe. This has been recognised by some major players who were notable by their absence last time around and are returning to Bologna this year. However, plenty of new companies will be presenting their goods and services to an international audience this year too.

Dähne Verlag will also have a stand at the show. You will find us in hall 16 on stand B 43, where you can learn more about the various products on offer from our publishing company. We look forward to your visit! Yours Ralf Majer-Abele
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