PORTLAND, ORE. — As of this month, Portland Pet Food Company’s (PPFC) natural diets, biscuits and treats for dogs will be available across Japan. KK ASK Planning International, based in Tokyo, will be the exclusive distributor of Portland Pet Food products in Japan.

Portland Pet Food’s dog products will be available through its new e-commerce platform, as well as in natural grocery and pet specialty retail stores. This includes the company’s complete-and-balanced diets, which can also be used as meal toppers, and its treat line.

The company has only recently begun to distribute its pet food and treat products outside of the United States. It recently announced its expansion into the Canadian market as well, partnering with Anipet Animal Supplies.

“This is a huge next step for our company, and we are so thrilled to now be selling our products internationally,” said Kate McCarron, founder of Portland Pet Food Company. “As shopping habits continue to shift toward natural products and healthy foods, people are doing the same for their pets. Japan has an aging population with aging dogs, and they are very respectful of their pets, treating them as valued members of their family. Pet owners in Japan are particularly interested in products that will help keep their dogs mobile and healthy so our high end, all-natural human grade food is a perfect fit for the long years they spend with their pets.

“I’m so thankful for the support of GPI [Greater Portland Inc.] and the Oregon Department of Agriculture for helping make this possible,” McCarron added.

According to Portland Pet Food, the idea to expand distribution overseas started when McCarron participated in a trade mission in Japan three years ago, which was sponsored by the Western United States Trade Agricultural Association and the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

“I am indeed delighted to start selling PPFC’s superb products for all dog lovers in Japan,” said Tomoko Hirosaki, chief executive officer of KK ASK Planning International. “…As the first exclusive distributor in Asia, it is my greatest pleasure to provide meals for family dogs to live as long and healthy as possible, and I am more than grateful to be involved in this new product.”

Portland Pet Food’s products are produced in the United States and formulated with 100% human-grade, USDA-certified meats and other natural ingredients. The brand has positioned itself for Millennials and Baby Boomers primarily, making it a mission to be available in major metropolitan regions of the United States.

The company’s products are currently available at more than 1,400 pet specialty and natural grocery stores across the United States.

“We are thrilled to see Portland Pet Food Company begin exporting internationally after receiving one of our export assistance scholarships,” said Matt Miller, interim president and chief executive officer of Greater Portland Inc. “The Growing Small Businesses Globally program helps Greater Portland entrepreneurs grow their business outside our region, which is key to supporting our economy from within. We are eager to see PPFC reach new markets in Japan, which has a special cultural connection with the Portland area, as well as other markets in Asia.”

Stay up to date on news about the pet food processing industry on our News page.