Freshpet automates with robotic chub loader

摘要

Freshpet brand pet food is extending fresh, preservative-free options to dogs and cats-or at least to their doting owners. The company has pioneered this new market via refrigerated cooler displays placed in more than 16,000 supermarkets in the U.S., further stretching the boundaries of premium pet food. While fresh pet food products likewise command a premium price point, month-to-month sales increases of 1% to 3% indicate people are willing to pay. Sales channels reach beyond the expected vehicles of Petco and PetSmart to cover the grocery gamut, from low-cost Walmart, to high-end Whole Foods. Even discount clubs like Costco and food-featuring big box stores like Target are in on the fresh pet food action.