Post Holdings to acquire select pet food brands from J.M. Smucker for $1.2B

Post Holdings announced it has signed a definitive agreement in which Post will acquire select pet food brands from The J.M. Smucker Co. for $1.2B. The transaction includes leading dog and cat food brands such as Rachael Ray Nutrish, Nature’s Recipe, 9Lives, Kibbles ‘n Bits and Gravy Train, which together generated net sales of $1.4B in the year ended April 30. Post also is acquiring manufacturing and distribution facilities in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and manufacturing facilities in Meadville, Pennsylvania and Lawrence, Kansas. The acquisition will provide Post with a compelling entry point into the attractive and growing pet food category. Post is acquiring an established, scaled position in the mainstream and entry premium sub-categories. Post management expects there to be additional opportunities for future investments in the pet food category.