PAWTUCKET, R.I. — Pet Food Experts, a leading pet specialty distributor in the United States, announced April 26 its acquisition of United Pacific Pet, a regional pet industry distributor operating out of California.
The acquisition marks Pet Food Experts’ largest transaction to date.
“Today’s announcement is a fitting tribute to Maureen Costello and Jim Butler’s exceptional leadership and legacy at UPP,” said Michael Baker, president and chief executive officer of Pet Food Experts. “This will be a monumental acquisition for PFX as it will significantly increase our overall scale and footprint in the West region.” Baker added, “We’re looking forward to bolstering the existing vendor portfolio and providing partners with sustainable growth as we have for generations.”
“Jim and I are very pleased to be joining the PFX family,” said Maureen Costello, president and chief executive officer of United Pacific Pet. “Having known the Baker family for over 30 years, Pet Food Experts is a company that shares our history, culture, systems, and commitment to the success of the independent retailer.
“Michael is a trusted business partner, and we have complete confidence that together we will be better positioned to meet the fast-changing needs of our customers, vendors, and employees,” Costello added. “We look forward to a smooth transition and significant growth ahead.”
Following the acquisition, Pet Food Experts will serve more than 6,000 independent pet retailers in 38 states through six distribution facilities.
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