In recent years, the pet industry has undergone a massive change. From booming sales to industry-wide shifts during the pandemic, company leaders have been forced to adjust their focus, consistently reevaluate, and steer their respective ships through sometimes turbulent waters. On the other side of sweeping change comes a phase of rebuilding, readjusting, and recalibrating what it means to be a successful, and thriving, business. Because of this, Pet Age, a media brand that has served the pet industry for 50+ years, recognizes 50 industry leaders to spotlight their dedication and passion for all things pet. Among those listed, our CEO and President, Michael Baker, earns a spot for the second consecutive year. The inaugural Pet Age 50 list was published in 2021.

Pet Age has fairly simple criteria for the leaders they choose; they look for those who positively influence the pet community, and who value both the people and pets their companies serve. To be included among industry veterans, heads of organizations, and community officials who advocate for the retail pet community is an honor. You can read an excerpt from Michael’s mention below:

Pet Food Experts announced today three key appointments to its senior leadership team. Among the new executives, James Martin has joined as Chief Financial Officer and Seth Mayers as Chief Technical Officer. In addition, industry veteran Jim Alden, Executive Vice President, will now oversee the customer experience team. The growth of the leadership team further positions Pet Food Experts as a community leader and service innovator.

PAWTUCKET, RI — Pet Food Experts, along with fellow industry leaders Phillips Pet Food & Supplies, American Pet Products Association, Pets Around the World, Matrix Partners, Animal Supply Company, Central Garden & Pet, and Southeast Pet, has partnered with Greater Good Charities to support the Save Pets of Ukraine initiative spearheaded by Kormotech, the largest pet food manufacturer in Ukraine. The emergency initiative provides pet food and critical supplies to Ukrainian animal welfare organizations and pet parents devastated by the Russian invasion beginning February 24, 2022.

Dot Family Holdings Joins Pet Food Experts in Igniting the Future of Pet Specialty Distribution

PAWTUCKET, RI — Pet Food Experts (PFX), a leading distributor of pet food and supplies, announced today an investment from Dot Family Holdings (DFH), the investment office of the Tracy Family, owners, and operators of Dot Foods, Inc., the largest human food industry redistributor in North America. 

There is one thing all pet parents know is true; our pets love receiving a good treat. For pet owners, switching up treats and chews is a fun opportunity to spice up the life of their four-legged friends, which is why it is no surprise that pet treats are one of the highest-grossing product categories in the pet space. At Pet Food Experts, our carefully curated brand portfolio offers pet specialty retailers and the communities they serve trusted brands and high-quality products that keep consumers happy and their pet's tails wagging.

TACOMA, WA/DENVER CO – Pet Food Experts announced today the expansion of two new distribution centers in Washington and Colorado over the next two months to support the growing demand for natural pet food and supplies. The expansion allows Pet Food Experts to better serve the pet specialty businesses of the Pacific Northwest and Mountain Region.

Across industries, the past two years were marked by rapid growth and transformation, even in the face of global supply chain challenges and widespread staffing shortages. The pet industry is not excluded from these challenges or tremendous growth. According to the APPA, an estimated $109.6 billion will have been spent on pets in the U.S. in 2021.

William May joins Pet Food Experts as Vice President of Supply Chain Operations

It's no secret that the challenges our world faces today are too big for any individual or individual organization to tackle. The Pet Sustainability Coalition is helping pet industry organizations and individuals turn their collective motivation and shared vision into action. As purpose-driven leaders, working together is the only way to make a real difference and tackle systemic change. In a short amount of time, the coalition has made a profound impact in helping to shape and activate sustainability efforts across this great industry. We’re pleased to announce this collaborative commitment and invite others to help drive further transformation.

On this 51st Earth Day, four Pet Sustainability Accredited brands are taking extra steps in celebration and action to advance their communities' wellbeing. While we're of the mindset that Earth Day is every day, this annual holiday prompts us all to take an extra step to protect and preserve this beautiful planet we all call home. Our amazing planet not only provides a bountiful place for our families to work and play, but it also generously provides the natural resources needed to successfully run our businesses.