Michael Baker Returns as CEO & President to Lead Landmark Acquisition, Strengthening PFX’s Industry Leadership and Accelerating Growth
PAWTUCKET, RI [February 26, 2025] — In a defining move, Pet Food Experts (PFX) has acquired select assets of Animal Supply Company (ASC), solidifying its position as the nation’s largest and most influential pet specialty distributor. With this expansion, Michael Baker returns to lead PFX as CEO and President following Greg Cyr’s decision to step down.
As part of this strategic move, PFX now operates the largest cold-chain network in the industry, offering fresh and frozen direct-to-store service to a wide range of customers, including pet superstores, national and regional chains, farm and feed stores, and neighborhood pet shops—PFX’s core customer base. Additionally, ASC’s 3PL direct-to-consumer and veterinary clinic capabilities will integrate into PFX’s expanded distribution network. A key tenet of this acquisition is revitalizing ASC’s once-dominant market share, particularly in serving neighborhood pet stores across the U.S. This transaction significantly expands Pet Food Experts' geographic footprint, strengthens its infrastructure, and enhances its distribution capabilities, setting a new standard for logistics and best-in-class service.
“We are excited to integrate the strengths of ASC, particularly their battle-tested, hardworking, and resilient team,” said Michael Baker, CEO and President of Pet Food Experts. “The opportunity to unite two legacies, each founded on a shared dedication to service excellence and strong relationships, has been nearly a decade in the making. By incorporating these strategic assets into our network, we are unlocking new opportunities to deliver unparalleled value to our retail and vendor partners.”
“This acquisition marks a transformative moment for PFX and the broader pet distribution landscape,” said John Tracy, Executive Chairman of Dot Family Holdings. “It underscores our strategic focus on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and long-term value creation.”
“PFX has long been a distinguished leader in the industry, and this acquisition marks a significant step forward,” said Tim Batterson, CEO & President of Animal Supply Company. “Throughout my eleven years at ASC, Michael and I have shared a vision for this partnership, and I’m excited to collaborate with him and the entire team to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.”
This acquisition cements PFX as the most defensible market leader in pet specialty distribution, strengthening its competitive edge with an unmatched logistics network, expanded service capabilities, and deep-rooted industry relationships. By integrating ASC’s strategic assets, PFX is not only expanding its geographic reach but also enhancing operational efficiencies, diversifying distribution channels, and reinforcing its commitment to independent pet retailers. With a shared legacy of excellence and innovation, PFX is poised to redefine industry standards, deliver unparalleled value to partners, and shape the future of pet specialty distribution.
About Pet Food Experts
Pet Food Experts is the #1 pet specialty distributor in the U.S., proudly serving over 10,000 pet retail locations nationwide. With decades of experience, we’re not just a distributor—we’re a trusted partner, driving innovation and building meaningful relationships. Our industry-leading logistics network, which includes the largest cold-chain service in the industry, powers fresh and frozen deliveries to pet superstores, regional chains, farm & feed stores, independent pet shops, and 3PL direct-to-consumer and veterinary clinic channels. We are dedicated to nurturing a healthy, vibrant pet ecosystem that supports the well-being of pets and the communities they call home.
Learn more at www.petfoodexperts.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or TikTok.
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