Kinderhook-backed Primal Pet Group buys EcoKind

Primal Pet Group, which is backed by Kinderhook Industries, has acquired EcoKind LLC, a provider of yak cheese chews. No financial terms were disclosed.

PRESS RELEASE

Chicago, IL – Primal Pet Group, Inc. (“Primal Pet Group” or “Primal”), a portfolio Company of Kinderhook Industries, LLC (“Kinderhook”), announced its acquisition of EcoKind, LLC (“EcoKind” or the “Company”). The Company represents Primal’s 4th add-on acquisition and Kinderhook’s 252nd add-on acquisition since inception. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2013, EcoKind produces premium, all-natural dog chews. The Company focuses on yak cheese chews and has a significant presence through Amazon. Led by Founder Devin Weisleder, EcoKind’s products have been reviewed 20,000+ times and have achieved an average 4.5+ star rating on Amazon.

“We are excited to welcome Devin Weisleder to the Primal team,” said Tim Simonds, Chief Executive Officer of Primal Pet Group. “Devin is a talented entrepreneur, who has founded and created a premium brand. His experience of the Amazon marketplace is unparalleled and will be beneficial across all of our brands.”

“The acquisition of EcoKind furthers Primal’s mission to be the leader in raw and minimally processed pet foods and treats. This acquisition helps solidify Primal’s position in the long-lasting treats market, which represents a three-billion-dollar market. EcoKind has positioned itself for strong growth in this category by focusing on premium, all-natural products selling through e-commerce channels” said Tom Tuttle, Managing Director of Kinderhook.

“I am excited to partner with the Primal team who will be instrumental in taking EcoKind through its next stage of growth. Primal has a world class team with exceptional relevant expertise. The team will serve as a great sounding board as we take this brand to the next level.” said Devin Weisleder, Founder of EcoKind.

Financing for the transaction was provided by Comerica Bank. Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Kinderhook. Peakstone Group served as the exclusive financial adviser to EcoKind.

About Kinderhook Industries
Founded in 2003, Kinderhook Industries, LLC is a private investment firm that manages over $5 billion of committed capital. We have made in excess of 300 investments and follow-on acquisitions since inception. Kinderhook’s investment philosophy is predicated on matching unique, growth-oriented investment opportunities with exceptional financial expertise and our proprietary network of operating partners. Our focus is on middle market businesses with defensible niche market positioning in the healthcare services, environmental / business services, and automotive / light manufacturing sectors. We have a track record of successfully and consistently building industry leaders.
For more information, please visit https://www.kinderhook.com