CHICAGO and INDIANAPOLIS — Skyline Global Partners LLC, a private equity firm, has announced an investment in pet treat co-manufacturer Cosmo’s Superior Foods.
According to Skyline Global, the US pet treat market will reach $11.3 billion by 2022 and has an expected growth rate of 10% through 2026, offering significant opportunities. Premiumization and humanization continue to drive the category, with many pet parents looking for natural, human-grade ingredients in crisp and freeze-dried treat formats, as well as those that offer benefits dental health.
Founded in 2012, Cosmo’s Superior Foods is a turn-key private label and co-manufacturer of ultra-premium pet treats. According to the company, it serves as a partner for a range of well-known pet treat brands across North America. Cosmo specializes in dehydrated and freeze-dried offal treats, including single-ingredient jerky, diced whole muscle and organs, and limited-ingredient functional treats. Its portfolio includes chicken jerky, chicken hearts, chicken feet, turkey breast, beef heart jerky, wild-caught Alaskan salmon filet and more.
Cosmo treats are human grade and formulated without additives and preservatives. The products are sourced and manufactured under HACCP guidelines in an FDA registered facility in the United States.
Cosmo has grown to serve as one of the largest independent pet treat co-manufacturers in Indiana, according to the company. The company’s in-house brand currently has a retail presence in more than 200 stores, with further expansion expected. Additionally, Cosmo plans to expand its facility and double its staff next year to help it meet growing demand.
“We were attracted to the growing pet treat category as well as the company’s consistent passion and discipline for bringing high quality and innovative products to its branded customer base,” said Sachin Gupta, partner at Skyline Global. “Our focus is to continue to innovate and bring our customers high quality and diverse products to retail shelves.”
Skyline Global’s investment provides Cosmo with growth capital to expand its business operations. According to Cosmo’s, it has begun expanding its manufacturing facilities and implemented state-of-the-art equipment to streamline production, increase capabilities and product offerings for its customers.
“We’ve faced many challenges over the years, but being able to meet consistent and growing demand has always been our main struggle,” said Sean Litke, founder and chief executive officer of Cosmo’s. “Our main focus has always been delivering the highest quality and most consistent products available, and providing the highest level of communication, transparency and customer service. Our team has been working towards this opportunity within 12 years and I am very grateful to our new partners who are committed to helping us achieve continued success.
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