Belgium: General Mills acquires pet food maker Edgard & Cooper

US food giant General Mills has announced the acquisition of Edgard & Cooper, a Belgium-based company described as Europe’s leading independent premium pet food maker.

“With this transaction, the company further advances its Accelerate strategy, including the prioritization of its core markets, global platforms and local gem brands to drive sustainable, profitable growth and top-tier shareholder returns over the long term”, the company said in a statement

Founded in 2016, Edgard & Cooper operates via omnichannel distribution and achieved over €100 million (£108 million) in 2023 retail sales across 13 markets.

Commenting on the deal, General Mills group president, Pet, International, and North America foodservice Jon Nudi said: “We’re thrilled to welcome the Edgard & Cooper team to the General Mills family, and we look forward to partnering together to advance their mission to revolutionize premium, natural pet food”.

Edgard & Cooper founder Koen Bostoen added: “We’re excited to join Team General Mills and continue doing what Edgard & Cooper is passionate about — making better dog and cat food with real ingredients that pets love and pet owners feel good about. Combining our brand’s natural positioning and commercial capabilities with General Mills’ marketing and supply chain expertise, we’re ready to accelerate Edgard & Cooper’s growth”.

General Mills plans to finance the acquisition via cash in hand.

Sources: General Mills