Nestlé has announced it is investing more than CHF 157 million to expand its pet food manufacturing capabilities in Thailand, strengthening production for Purina brands and helping meet the growing demand for high-quality pet nutrition.

The investment is focused on Purina’s manufacturing site in Rayong, Thailand and will enable increased production of pet food and pet treats under the Felix, Friskies, Pro Plan and Purina One brands. Production will support both local and international markets.

“Pet food is one of Nestlé’s most dynamic segments globally, accounting for around 21% of Group sales. This investment reflects our confidence in its long-term potential across Asia, Oceania and Africa (AOA) as well as the rest of the world,” said Remy Ejel, CEO of Nestlé Zone AOA. “Thailand is an important part of Purina’s global manufacturing network, and this expansion will enhance our ability to serve more pet owners with superior nutrition.”

A rise in pet ownership is driving growth in pet care across AOA. Pet owners are moving from home-prepared meals to wholesome packaged nutrition, particularly in the premium space, and they are looking for products that support pets’ health and wellbeing.

“With over 350 million domestic cats and dogs across AOA as well as a pet population that continues to grow, demand for high-quality pet nutrition is also increasing,” added Hubert Wieser, CEO of Nestlé Purina Petcare. “The health and wellbeing trend is being extended to pets, as they are increasingly seen as members of the family. This is driving demand for functional and specialized products that help enhance their longevity, vitality and overall quality of life.”

The expanded production is expected to use a high proportion of locally sourced raw materials, including poultry, fish and vegetables, supporting local suppliers and boosting value creation in Thailand.

The CHF 157 million investment is part of Nestlé’s continued efforts to strengthen pet food manufacturing worldwide, following a CHF 520 million investment in a new pet food plant and logistics platform in Italy and a US$ 550 million investment in a new Purina factory in the US. The investment further strengthens Nestlé’s manufacturing footprint in Thailand, as the company also plans to build a new high-tech Nescafé production and distribution hub in the country.