The Nutriment Company expands European footprint with Frostfutter Perleberg acquisition

EUROPE – The Nutriment Company (TNC), owned by Nordic private-equity firm Axcel, has strengthened its position in the European pet food market with the acquisition of German premium dog and cat food producer Frostfutter Perleberg, a specialist in raw feeding (BARF) and fresh-frozen pet nutrition.

Based in Perleberg, northern Germany, Frostfutter Perleberg is known for its species-appropriate nutrition approach, sourcing human-grade meat from regional farms, and producing fresh batches daily at its on-site facility, which includes an integrated slaughterhouse.

Founded in 2004 as K&K Petfood GmbH, the company introduced the Frostfutter Perleberg brand in 2012. 

Today, it offers a wide portfolio that includes frozen raw meals, wet food, snacks, chews, and nutritional supplements. It also operates a direct-to-consumer online shop and employs more than 100 staff.

TNC said the acquisition adds a key platform in Germany’s growing fresh and frozen pet food segment and strengthens its direct-to-consumer capabilities across Europe’s premium pet nutrition market.

“Regional sourcing. Transparent production. A genuine passion for species-appropriate nutrition. That’s been Frostfutter Perleberg’s DNA from day one, and it’s ours too,” the company said. 

“This acquisition brings us closer to even more pet owners in Germany who care deeply about what goes into their pets’ bowls.”

Frostfutter Perleberg has built its reputation over more than 15 years by focusing on BARF (biologically appropriate raw food) diets, which emphasise minimally processed ingredients designed to reflect natural feeding patterns for dogs and cats. 

The company operates in accordance with EU production standards, with a strong focus on traceability, quality control, and regional sourcing.

TNC said the acquisition aligns with its long-term strategy to expand in the premium natural pet food category, particularly in high-growth segments such as fresh-frozen and raw feeding diets.

Anders Kristiansen, CEO of The Nutriment Company, said the deal strengthens the group’s quality-led portfolio and customer base.

“With the acquisition of Frostfutter Perleberg, we are gaining a business with a clear quality positioning and high customer loyalty,” he said. 

“For over 15 years, they have championed natural, species-appropriate nutrition that meets the highest standards. This mission perfectly aligns with our own commitment to providing healthy, premium pet food that contributes to the long-term health and happiness of dogs and cats.”

The company said the integration is also expected to deliver operational efficiencies by combining production systems, sourcing networks, and distribution channels across its European operations.

Julius Adrian, managing director for Western Europe at TNC, said the acquisition would enhance growth potential and improve supply chain efficiency.

“The combination of in-house production, regional sourcing and a strong direct customer base makes Frostfutter Perleberg and eBarf an ideal addition to our portfolio,” he said. 

“Integrating them into our existing structure will allow us to realise operational synergies and enable further growth.”

The acquisition reflects ongoing consolidation in Europe’s premium pet food sector, where demand for natural, raw, and minimally processed diets continues to expand, particularly among health-conscious pet owners.

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