Central Garden & Pet has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in Germany-based TRIXIE Heimtierbedarf GmbH & Co. KG, one of Europe’s leading pet supplies and pet snacks companies. The transaction marks one of Central’s largest strategic investments in the pet sector and significantly expands its footprint in the European pet specialty market. The deal is expected to close during the first half of Central’s fiscal 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Tarp, Germany, TRIXIE serves more than 30,000 pet retailer stores worldwide with a portfolio of over 6,000 products spanning dogs, cats, birds, reptiles and small animals. The leading European company’s founder is Bonnik Hansen, and current shareholders are Dirk Jessen and Volker Haak. Approximately 90% of its sales are generated from its own-brand portfolio, and the company introduces around 500 new products each year through its in-house product development capabilities. TRIXIE employs around 600 people and has established an extensive logistics and distribution network across Europe.
The European pet supplies and snacks market is worth approximately EUR10 billion in annual sales and continues to benefit from trends including pet humanization, premiumization, pet health and pet technology. Following completion, TRIXIE will become part of Central’s Pet segment and is expected to increase the company’s international business to roughly 10% of total net sales.
The acquisition aligns with Central Garden & Pet’s long-term ‘Central to Home’ strategy by creating a scaled portfolio and strengthening its presence in the European pet supplies market. Central plans to preserve entrepreneurial culture, customer focus, and market strengths that have made TRIXIE a leader in the European pet supplies market, while leveraging its scale, sourcing capabilities, and product development expertise to support its continued growth.
TRIXIE’s existing management team, Dirk Jessen, Burkhard Friedrichsen and Danny Bollerey, will remain in place to ensure business continuity. The founder, Bonnik Hansen, will sell his stake alongside current shareholders Dirk Jessen and Volker Haak. Dirk Jessen and Volker Haak will retain minority shareholdings, while Haak will continue supporting the business as a consultant. The management’s continued involvement underscores long-term confidence in the company’s future and provides continuity for employees, customers, trading partners, and suppliers.
Chief Executive Officer Niko Lahanas, Central Garden & Pet, described TRIXIE as a market leader with strong customer relationships, differentiated products and a highly respected management team, adding that the acquisition provides Central with an established platform for long-term growth in Europe. TRIXIE founder Bonnik Hansen said Central shares the company’s long-term vision and values, added “Joining forces with Central Garden & Pet marks an important milestone in TRIXIE’s 50-year history.” The partnership will support continued innovation and growth while maintaining TRIXIE’s customer-focused culture.
