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Is 2023 A Good Time To Sell My Animal Food Manufacturer In California?

Andrew Rogerson • Feb 14, 2023

Animal Food Manufacturer

The 2023 market for buying and selling pet and animal food manufacturers in California will be particularly favorable for sellers, specifically in certain pet food and animal processing manufacturing specialties breakdown by revenue:

  1. Dog Food Products (28%)
  2. Poultry Feeds & Supplements (18%) 
  3. Cat Food Products (12%) 
  4. Dairy Cattle Feed & Supplements (11%) 
  5. Swine Feed & Supplements (7%)
  6. Beef Cattle Feed & Supplements (6%)
  7. Other Livestock Feed (4%)
  8. Specialty Pet Food (4%)
  9. Other (10%)
Animal Food Manufacturer breakdown by revenue

Nonetheless, there are 1200 animal and pet food manufacturers in the United States and 255 manufacturers located in the State of California according to Dun & Bradstreet

 

California And US Animal Pet Food Feed Production Landscape


A typical animal feed manufacturer employs 31 workers and generates about $34 million annually. A typical pet food manufacturer employs 79 workers and generates $80 million annually.


  • The pet and animal food manufacturing industry consists of about 1,200 companies that employ 66,000 workers and generate about $56 billion annually.
  • Animal feed manufacturers account for 77% of companies and 58% of industry sales. The poultry and swine industries are the largest consumers of animal feed.
  • Pet food manufacturing is highly concentrated, with the top 20 companies accounting for 86% of sales. Animal feed manufacturing is less concentrated, with the top 20 companies accounting for about 50% of sales.
  • Large animal feed companies include Land O'Lakes, Cargill, and Archer Daniels Midland. Most major pet food brands are owned by large consumer product companies, such as Mars (Pedigree, Iams), Nestle (Purina), and Colgate-Palmolive (Hill's Science Diet).

Source - Virtual IQ | NAICS 3111, SIC 2047, 2048

 

In California, as in the US, an increasing share of animal feed and pet food manufacturers are owned by small and medium-sized companies accounting for 57 percent. 

 

A recent study showed that the share of animal and pet food manufacturers owned by:

 

  • female entrepreneurs are 27% 
  • followed by 12.7% veteran owned 
  • and finally, 12% are owned by minorities.

 

Forty-three percent are classified under a corporate entity.


Get A Copy Of The Full-39-Pages-Pet-Animal-Food-Manufacturers-Industry-Report: DOWNLOAD

 

Strong Growth Drives M&A Activity 

 

The pet food and treat industry saw unprecedented activity in 2022, with 35 mergers and acquisitions occurring alone in the first half of 2022. These lower- to middle-market transactions totaled over $121 billion for 2021 - a figure that speaks volumes about investor demand which may very well be showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. 

 

According to Carol Frank from BirdsEye Advisory Group, private equity firms are financing major deals as industry leaders strive to meet consumer demands while at the same time growing their market share. 

 

It appears Warren Buffett's famous words ring true: "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."

 

Rogerson Business Services have been brokering manufacturing companies since 2006 in California. We have sold many manufacturing-related businesses in various niches and sectors. Most recently, we sold a $36 million manufacturing company deal in 2021

 

Send us an email to support@rogersonbusinessservices.com and get the full list of manufacturers sold. 

 

The market is bullish in California, but certain factors can influence this market environment. 

 

Let’s dive in…

 

5 Buy-Sell Business Factors in 2023


First Factor: Interest Rates Outlook 

 

The pet and animal feed production industry is an attractive investment for private equity firms, strategic buyers, and acquirers alike. 

 

With 2023 marking a great time to sell your lower middle market manufacturing company in the first quarter, now could be the perfect opportunity: current interest rates make it particularly attractive to strategic buyers, but not so much to private equity; whilst its recession-proof nature practically ensures the security of funds invested. 

 

In light of recent Fed action towards keeping high rates elevated long-term - this looks like an opportune moment! Selling your business now is the perfect economic time to make you laugh all the way to the bank. 


Second Factor: Strategic Buyers Bullish

 

California is home to some of the most sought-after strategic buyers in pet food, like:


  • Dog Food 
  • Animal Feed 
  • Cat Food 
  • Specialty Nutrition Gourmet Pet Foods. 

 

Yet one Berkeley-based company stands out from them all: Wild Earth strives for clean protein and nutrition-packed dog foods without any harm coming to animals or their environment - a noble ambition if there ever was one! 

 

Plus they've developed a "cellular-based meat broth topper" that's about to be launched within the industry as its first cell-based product. 

 

Talk about taking sustainability up several notches! We can thank Wild Earth too; an astounding 30% of US consumption comes from pets' stomachs alone (woof!). With products such as this plant & cellular-based offering, it could well reduce our environmental footprint significantly – let’s pawsitivity set us on a course here folks!

 

Third Factor: Availability Of Capital 

 

With capital readily available, now is the perfect time to capitalize on great business opportunities. 

 

Whether you're looking for growth or an exit strategy in 2023, a forward-thinking pet food brand that keeps its financials impeccably organized can provide strong valuation metrics and ensure success! 

 

Warren Buffett would approve.

 

Fourth Factor: Taxes 

 

California understands that taxes can be complex. 

 

A lucky break this past year put the state in a better spot when it comes to capital gains-- no thanks to Biden's proposed hikes! 

 

Thankfully, taxpayers remain savvy on how their investments are taxed - even if Warren Buffet requires extra help figuring out his tax bill.

 

Five: Timing The Sale

 

Animal and pet food manufacturers in California might have to wait until 2028 for the optimal exit or capital raise opportunity when economic cycles reach their peak. But those near retirement should carefully evaluate if they are prepared to do so; after all, timing is everything! 

 

Pet food manufacturers have a choice to make - wait for the market to rebound in 5-10 years, or capitalize on potential growth now by assessing the market conditions of early 2023. Timing is critical as strategizing appropriately could lead to valuations that maximize profits later down the road.

 

With just a bit of strategic planning from today's business owners, that next growth cycle may prove incredibly lucrative indeed.

 

Despite sounding the alarm bells, Rogerson Business Services continues to defy expectations and thrive in the buy-sell market. Last year saw a record high; this coming year is predicted to be even more remarkable! The 2022 business trading climate has been fueled by several factors that are sure to stay around for 2023 - setting an impressive trend of growth for years ahead. 


Get A Copy Of The Latest Pet-Animal Food Manufacturers Industry Report: DOWNLOAD


2023 Will Be an Even Better Year to Sell your animal feed production manufacturing company in California if the Timing is Right. Why?

 

With an aging "baby boomer" demographic and a predicted stronger financial performance of businesses in 2022, Rogerson Business Services is expecting to see higher cash flow multiples that will incentivize more sellers as they consider their exit from the buy-sell market. 

 

Warren Buffett concurs: it could be prime time for transitioning owners looking to capitalize on these favorable conditions!

 

Rogerson Business Services is thrilled to forecast that the 2023 buy-sell landscape in California's pet and animal food manufacturing industry will be an attractive playground for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. 

 

Retiring business owners can look forward to a highly efficient deal process with generous cash flow multiples as rewards for years of work dedicated to success. 

 

This could very likely prove one of Warren Buffett’s famous investment aphorisms: “Price is what you pay; value is what you get”!


California is Poised to Overtake Germany


According to Bloomberg, California is poised to overtake Germany as the world’s 4th largest economy, continuing to outperform the nation and other countries in GDP growth, companies’ market value, renewable energy, and more.


This growth and prominence within the global economy will lead to increased demand for pet and animal food manufacturing companies with strong production capabilities. 


As such, strategic buyers, financial investors, venture capitalists, private equity groups, family offices, high net-worth individuals, and other stakeholders are likely to show interest in this sector.

 

These entities will be looking for companies with strong financials, good management teams, and the potential to generate long-term value through organic and inorganic growth.


To maximize value, these companies must pay attention to costs including labor, raw materials, transportation, production processes, and other related expenses. 


Additionally, manufacturers should focus on understanding consumer habits and preferences; innovating new products; improving quality control; and investing in research and development to stay ahead of the competition. 


Companies should also explore opportunities for new markets, customers, and partnerships.

 

Furthermore, they must develop efficient business models that make digital transformation a priority while ensuring compliance with existing regulations. 


Finally, strategic buyers will be looking for companies with an international presence or those that can help them expand into global markets.


In conclusion, when it comes to survival in today's competitive market, manufacturers need to take into account a variety of factors such as costs, consumer preferences and trends, quality control, research & development, digital transformation, and international trade. Working on these elements will help companies remain viable and profitable in California.

 

“While critics often say California’s best days are behind us, reality proves otherwise – our economic growth and job gains continue to fuel the nation’s economy,” said Governor Newsom. “California’s values and entrepreneurial spirit have powered this ascent to becoming the 4th biggest economy in the world, and we’ll continue doubling down on industries of the future, like renewables and clean energy. I feel tremendous pride in California’s resilience, leadership, and formula for success.”

 

Demand for Animal Feed In California: DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

top 5 animal species by consumption in California


Here are Some Takeaways


  • “California outperforms the US and the rest of the world across many industries. That’s especially relevant with renewable energy, the fastest-growing business in California”
  • “California’s trajectory is most transparent in the growing divergence between its 379 companies with a market value of at least $1 billion”
  • “California technology hardware, media, and software saw sales increase 63%, 95%, and 115% the past three years, boosting market valuations by 184%, 54%, and 58%”
  • “Job creation is a particularly strong area, with unemployment falling to 3.9% in July, the lowest since data was compiled in 1976 … California’s joblessness dipped below Texas”


UCLA Anderson Forecast


  • “UCLA Anderson Forecast also predicts a quick economic recovery fueled by consumer spending, construction, and lack of labor availability”
  • “Stable housing and job markets, combined with a record level of venture capital investments, have strengthened the economic outlook for California”
  • “California’s economic growth is expected to be among the fastest in the nation over the next two years”
  • “With a population of nearly 40 million people and an economy larger than that of many countries, California is a major player in the global economy”
  • “The state’s diverse industrial base supports high-tech manufacturing, biotechnology, entertainment, tourism, and agriculture”
  • “California continues to be an attractive destination for businesses seeking to access markets on both coasts of the U.S

 

According to UCLA Anderson Forecast Director Jerry Nickelsburg.


  • Unlike the tech meltdown in 2001, when layoffs were concentrated among information technology jobs in the Bay Area, this year’s tech purging has had little effect on the California economy
  • Housing construction is an area where California is outpacing the rest of the country
  • Defense spending is also helping the California economy
  • UCLA Anderson Forecast Director Jerry Nickelsburg projected employment growth of 1.1% in 2023 and 1.2% in 2024 for California if the state does not go into recession and employment growth of .5% in 2023 and 1.3% in 2024 if it does


If you are looking to value and sell your pet and animal manufacturing business in 2023, the fundamentals remain. 


Selling Your Animal Food Production Business in 2023


If you're considering diving into the market of selling a lower middle market manufacturing business, let Rogerson Business Services guide your way. 

 

Our experienced advisors know how to get deals done quickly and safely for both motivated buyers and sellers through full disclosure. 

 

Thanks to our expertise in 2022, we were able to successfully facilitate numerous successful sales in California's lower-middle market! 

 

Don't wait any longer - reach out today so that together, we can make sure your sale is as smooth sailing as a $36 million manufacturing company was sold in 2021. 

 

See the case study


Positioning your Manufacturing Business to Capture the Highest ROI

 

Whether you are in growth mode or just reaping the rewards that come from an established, mature pet and animal food manufacturing operation, it is important to always have a strong pulse on taking a holistic approach to the sale of your pet and animal food production business can ensure that you're able to maximize its value, no matter if it's in growth mode or not. 

 

Warren Buffett once said: "Price is what you pay; value is what you get." With Rogerson Business Services assisting with countless lower-middle market manufacturing businesses sold these last two years alone, expertise about how best to position yourself for success on the journey towards getting your desired return investment is only an inquiry away!

 

As always, Rogerson Business Services thank you for reading and stand ready to assist you in whatever challenge you are facing. As you will see, we are very bullish on the 2023 buy-sell pet food manufacturing trading landscape …


What’s The Next Step


In the wake of this unprecedented trading climate, savvy business owners in 2023 are looking to maximize their profits by investing wisely. 

 

Fortunately for those with a manufacturing or pet food processing business, there's an experienced and trusted certified mergers & acquisitions advisor here in California ready to help you capitalize on your opportunities! 

 

With expertise spanning from evaluating your company’s value and putting together a compelling marketing package that showcases it through identifying buyer prospects (while protecting confidentiality) plus assembling professional deal teams committed to ensuring successful closings - achieving peak returns has never been easier. Warren Buffett would be proud!


Articles and Videos Worth Checking Out

1) 2023 Market Policy and Outlook

2) Baby Boomers Infrastructure & 2023 Outlook

3) Looking ahead: The pet nutrition industry prepares for 2023

4) Pet Food Makers Think Beyond Animal Meat

5) Pet Industry Market Size, Trends & Ownership Statistics

6) Pet Food – Analysing the opportunity for Private Equity and MNCs

7) 41 pet food industry mergers and acquisitions 2022

8) Top 10 Pet Industry Mergers & Acquisitions Stories of 2022

9) Study: animal feed industry an important contributor to US economy

10) A Closer Look at the Feed Manufacturing Industry


Final Take: Sell My Animal Pet Food Manufacturer


If you are a retiring business owner looking to exit your lower middle market manufacturer in California, here are six tips to get you started:


1. Don't wait until the last minute to start planning your exit. The process of selling a lower middle market manufacturing business can take a long time, so it's important to start early.

2. Have a clear idea of what you want to get out of the sale. Know your goals and what you're willing to negotiate.

3.   Know what's your company's worth. This is an essential step to take when planning to sell your manufacturing business in California.

4. Choose the right type of buyer. Not all buyers are created equal, so do your research and find the right one for your business.

5. Be prepared for a lot of due diligence. M&A buy-side due diligence is when buyers will want to know everything about your business, so be ready to provide documentation and answer questions.

6. Be flexible with the terms and conditions of the deal. It's important to be open to negotiation to get the best possible deal for your business.


Rogerson Business Services, also known as, California's lower middle market business broker is a sell-side M&A advisory firm that has closed hundreds of lower middle-market deals in California. We are dedicated to helping our clients maximize value and achieve their desired outcomes. 

 

We have a deep understanding of the Californian market and an extensive network of buyers, which allows us to get the best possible price for our clients. We also provide comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from initial valuation to post-closing integration. 

 

Our hands-on approach and commitment to our client's success set us apart from other firms in the industry. If you consider selling your lower middle market manufacturing business, we would be honored to help you navigate the process and realize your goals.


If you have decided to value and then sell your lower middle market manufacturing company or still not ready, get started here, or call toll-free 1-844-414-9600 and leave a voice message with your question and get it answered within 24 hours. The deal team is spearheaded by Andrew Rogerson, Certified M&A Advisor, he will personally review and understand your pain point/s and prioritize your inquiry with Rogerson Business Services, RBS Advisor

Part of tips to selling a manufacturing company in California series ->

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