ST. CHARLES, MO. — AFB International, a subsidiary of Ensign-Bickford Industries specializing in pet food palatability solutions, announced the grand opening of its new Asia Pacific regional headquarters and manufacturing facility in Samut Prakan, Thailand, on Oct. 28. According to AFB, the facility will help support the rapid growth of the pet food industry in Asia, allowing the company to meet the demands of its customers.

“The opening our facility in Thailand marks a major milestone in our global expansion efforts,” said Dale Spence, president of AFB. “Our customers asked us to be local, and now we are. This facility strengthens our commitment to the region, allowing us to better serve our customers with enhanced efficiency, speed and local support.”

The new facility will serve as AFB’s regional hub for its Asia Pacific operations with corporate offices, manufacturing, R&D and quality teams all under a single roof. According to the company, the facility will help enhance its operational efficiency, ensure a reliable supply chain, and provide faster delivery and service. 

“Thailand, the world’s third largest pet food exporter, is an ideal location for our new facility,” said Bas Melssen, general manager and vice president of Asia Pacific. “As a hub for innovation in the pet food industry, Thailand aligns perfectly with our commitment to advancing product development and manufacturing excellence. Establishing our Asia Pacific headquarters here allows us to leverage Thailand’s expertise and leadership in the sector, being closer to our existing customers here, while further enhancing our ability to innovate and meet the growing demands of the region.” 

As well as advancing its operations, the new facility also aligns with AFB’s sustainability initiatives.

“Our Thailand facility is a crucial step in aligning our operational goals with our sustainability objectives,” said Stephanie Hackmann, vice president of global operations. “By localizing production, we can serve our customers more efficiently, respond faster to their needs, and significantly reduce transportation-related emissions — a win for both efficiency and the environment.”

The grand opening event brought together more than 130 guests from seven countries including representatives from pet food manufacturers and trade associations throughout Asia.

AFB is continuing its celebration of the facility during Pet Fair Southeast Asia 2024 from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibitions Center. The company is exhibiting at booth N01. 

“This is a proud moment not only for our company but for the community we are becoming a part of,” Melssen said. “We welcome all industry professionals to visit our booth, join the festivities, and learn more about the exciting new chapter we’re starting with our facility in Thailand.”

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