Snellman Petfood expands into UK with Benyfit Natural acquisition

Finnish company Snellman Petfood has acquired British premium raw pet food manufacturer Benyfit Natural, for an undisclosed sum, marking its first purchase in the UK and a further step in its international expansion strategy.

Founded in 2014, Benyfit Natural produces natural raw dog food from its facility in East Sussex. 

Its products are distributed through independent and specialist pet retailers and direct to consumers online. The company was previously owned by Australia’s Real Pet Food Company.

The UK dog food market has grown 5% year on year, with raw food now accounting for nearly 13% of total pet food sales. According to Snellman, consumer demand for sustainably sourced, minimally processed products continues to drive growth across the segment.

Benyfit Natural’s 20 employees will join Snellman Petfood and the brand will continue to operate under its existing name.

Snellman Petfood, part of the Snellman Group, manufactures frozen and freeze-dried raw food and treats under the brands Mush, Fodax and Raw for Paw. 

The company operates factories in Finland and Sweden and reported turnover of about €25m (£21.9m) in 2024.

Magnus Pettersson, director of Snellman’s pet food business, said: “We’ve seen significant growth in the raw pet food market in Europe, expanding faster than the wider pet category. Benyfit Natural is the perfect addition, aligning with our portfolio in both product and family business values.”

Greg Van Praagh, operations lead at Benyfit Natural, who will become managing director following the acquisition, added: “We could not be more pleased to be joining the Snellman Petfood family. It’s an exciting time for the raw food category in the UK, and we look forward to growing with their support.”