UK pet food manufacturer acquired by Chicago private equity firm

The private equity firm, based in Chicago, USA, completed the deal for an undisclosed amount and will now support Assisi founder and chief executive Peter Mangion in the day-to-day running of the business.

Wind Point is an experienced investor in the pet and animal nutrition industry, with prior and current investments in firms such as Targeted PetCare, FoodScience, Petmate and Pestell Nutrition.

Founded in 2020, Assisi produces natural dog and cat foods and treats, which it sells across Europe via grocery stores, pet retailers and its ecommerce platform. It has two production facilities in Poland, while the business is headquartered in the UK in Melton Mowbray.

Assisi has completed four acquisitions in its short history, which has enabled the manufacturer to expand its production capabilities and geographic reach.

Wind Point the ‘ideal partner’ for Assisi

“Assisi has been on a tremendous journey since its inception in 2020, which is a testament to the strength and quality of our people, our customer and supplier relationships and the rich heritage of our brands and products​,” Mangion said following the announcement of the acquisition.

“Wind Point and I have worked closely together for numerous years. Our shared focus on investing in our people and expanding our capabilities makes them the ideal partner for Assisi​.”

Meanwhile, Wind Point vice president Adam Jump said that the acquisition presented a “significant opportunity​” given the “dynamic​” nature of the European pet care market.

Jump continued: “Peter and the Assisi management team have built an outstanding business that sits at an exciting inflection point. We look forward to supporting the Assisi team as they continue to build a differentiated pet foods and treats platform​.”

Paul Peterson, Wind Point managing director, added, “Assisi operates in attractive markets and is well-positioned through its focus on premium and natural pet foods and treats. Wind Point’s long-term experience in pet positions us well to support Peter and the team in the company’s next phase of growth​.”

In other news, shareholders in bakery firm Finsbury Food Group have publicly spoken out against its proposed sale​​.