Montego’s Monic Group strengthens South African pet care sector with Marltons acquisition

SOUTH AFRICA — Monic Group, the holding company of Montego Pet Nutrition, has finalised its acquisition of Marltons Pet Care, merging two of the country’s most established pet care businesses and positioning the group to compete more effectively against multinational players. 

The deal brings Marltons, a trusted name in South African pet care since 1945, into the Monic portfolio, creating a combined entity with over a century of expertise in serving both local and international pet owners.

The acquisition pairs Montego’s deep knowledge in pet nutrition with Marltons’ extensive experience in everyday pet care. 

Johan van Jaarsveld, Managing Director of Montego Pet Nutrition, described the transaction as a milestone in the company’s ambition to globally champion Africa as a key player in the pet care industry. 

He emphasised that Marltons’ long-standing operational expertise complements Montego’s nutrition-focused business, offering shared resources and knowledge that will accelerate growth for both brands.

The two companies already share a history of collaboration. Montego has been a key supplier to Marltons since 2018, establishing a strong commercial foundation that will now be enhanced by the acquisition. 

Gavin Miller, Managing Director of Marltons Pet Care, noted that the partnership provides the operational infrastructure and distribution network needed to reach more retailers and customers efficiently, supporting the company’s next stage of growth.

South Africa pet care market

The acquisition reflects the resilience and growth potential of South Africa’s pet care sector.

Currently valued at approximately R8 billion (US$480 million) and projected to reach R12.6 billion (US$756 million) by 2032, the market has shown remarkable resistance to broader consumer spending constraints. 

By the end of 2025, around half of South African households had reduced discretionary spending, yet pet care remained a priority. 

For the 45% of adults who own pets, annual spending can reach R60,000 (US$3,600) in the first year, while unexpected veterinary costs, such as surgeries, may exceed R25,000 (US$1,500), highlighting the sector’s essential role in household budgets.

Montego attributes this sustained demand to the ongoing trend of pet humanisation, with 97% of owners viewing their animals as family members. 

This trend mirrors global patterns, including in the United States, where pet spending grew 5.1% during the 2008 financial crisis and 16.2% during the Covid-19 pandemic, outpacing overall economic growth.

By integrating Marltons into its portfolio, Monic Group strengthens its platform for growth, efficiency, and modern retail capabilities. 

The combined expertise of Montego and Marltons is expected to enhance product development, expand distribution reach, and solidify the group’s position in a rapidly maturing sector. 

Van Jaarsveld concluded that the acquisition not only accelerates the companies’ growth ambitions but also underscores South Africa’s potential as a rising force in global pet care.

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