IRVING, TEXAS — Animal Supply Company (ASC), a major distributor of pet food and supplies in the United States, announced Sept. 25 the promotion of Tim Batterson to president and chief executive officer.

Batterson joined ASC in 2014 and most recently served as chief operating officer for the distributor. He has more than 30 years of sales, marketing, information technology, manufacturing, purchasing, logistics and distribution experience.

“I’m excited to work with my ASC teammates in this new role to expand our innovative product portfolio, distribution services and digital solutions to best serve our brand and retail partners,” Batterson said. “Animal Supply Company is financially stronger and better positioned for future growth than ever before.”

Batterson succeeds Don McIntyre as chief executive officer. McIntyre has accepted another chief executive position outside of the pet industry, ASC reported.

“I have every confidence the Company will continue to excel under Tim’s leadership,” said McIntyre. “ASC teammates share a passion for pets that I know will continue to ‘Deliver Success’ for the Company and its customers.”

This leadership change follows ASC’s procurement of a $40 million capital investment from one of its institutional owners to drive continued growth and development of the company’s offerings, both online and through brick-and-mortar.

“With Tim’s leadership and this recent investment, we are well poised to help the specialty pet channel thrive, even in this uncertain time,” commented Randy Reber, chairman of the board and one of the original founders of ASC. “Thank you to Don for helping us secure the leading market position we’re in today. There is a bright future ahead for Animal Supply Company and the independent pet industry.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.