Leading UK pet food manufacturer, Burgess Pet Care, has announced the acquisition of German small animal nutrition brand, Bunny Nature. The move marks a significant step forward in Burgess’ global growth strategy that will see the group increase its international revenues five-fold to £12.5m.
The acquisition, completed through an asset purchase process, represents Burgess’ largest international deal to date following its purchase of natural dog food brand Green Pantry and investment in fresh dog food subscription business Tuggs.
Founded in 1988, Bunny Nature is known for its high-quality small animal feeds, with established distribution spanning the EU, North America and Asia. Its international footprint provides Burgess with immediate access to a broader customer base and supports its ongoing strategy to scale its presence worldwide.
The combination of Burgess and Bunny Nature brings together two well-established, science-led brands with shared values and focus on animal health and nutrition. The two businesses are highly complementary, creating opportunities to introduce proven products into new markets through existing distribution networks. The partnership also accelerates innovation by combining expertise, establishing the business with an operational platform inside mainland Europe on which to further expand its reach globally.
Burgess will maintain Bunny Nature as a distinct brand within the group, preserving its German identity, customer relationships and product quality. Existing senior leadership teams will remain in place, providing continuity and a seamless service for its customers, partners and employees.
Mark Womersley, Managing Director of Burgess Pet Care, said: “This is a significant milestone for Burgess. Bunny Nature is a highly respected brand with genuine international reach, and its values, expertise, and reputation align perfectly with our long-term ambition to create the world’s leading small animal brand.
“What stood out to us throughout the process was the strength of its people, brand, its customer relationships and the quality of its products. We see clear opportunities to invest, to grow and to build a truly global small animal nutrition company with an unmatched offering for pets and pet owners around the world.
“The acquisition transforms our global footprint. International sales now account for 35% of group revenue, up from 10% previously, with international revenue increasing from £2.5m to £12.5m—five times its previous size”.
Oliver Petzoldt, Managing Director of Bunny Nature, added: “Bunny Nature has built a loyal customer base and strong reputation across multiple markets, and we’re pleased to be joining a business that shares our values around animal welfare and nutrition. Burgess brings both expertise and long-term commitment, and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow the brand together.”
Tom Roberts, group Chairman, and the latest generation of the founding Burgess family, said: “This acquisition reflects our confidence in the future of the pet care market and is great news for the Burgess family. It builds on our recent investments in Green Pantry and Tuggs and demonstrates our commitment to backing high-quality businesses that share our values, passion for animal wellbeing, and focus on innovation. Together, these investments strengthen our portfolio of trusted pet brands and support our long-term ambition to build the world’s leading small animal group.”
