Minority shareholder acquisition sets momentum for continued expansion

The Competition Commission of South Africa has approved an application by local pet food giant, Montego Pet Nutrition (Montego), to secure a minority growth investment by Janic Capital (PTY) Ltd, owned by the Dippenaar family.

Montego is the largest privately-owned pet food producer in Africa and owns a portfolio of 7 brands that sell dry food, wet food, sauces and treats predominantly to pet stores, vet stores, veterinary clinics, co-operatives, feed outlets and supermarkets nationwide. They also export products to 13 other countries across Africa.

Montego was founded in 2000 by the van Jaarsveld family, which retains a majority stake and will continue to be responsible for the business’ operations. Janic Capital’s minority investment into Montego and its affiliate companies (Montego Logistics and Montego Namibia (PTY) Ltd) was concluded in December 2019. 

The undisclosed investment in the company forms part of Montego’s growth and expansion strategy for 2020/2021, which includes growing its share in the local market and the establishment of a prominent footprint in other African countries and abroad. This aligns with its vision of being an international pet food brand of choice, recognised for exceptional quality, value, and the positive change it brings to the communities in which it operates.

“We’re excited to have members of Janic Capital join the Montego board of directors. The incoming directors will work with the rest of the board to implement our growth strategy as we increase our market share and foothold in local and international pet food markets,” says Johan van Jaarsveld, Managing Director of Montego Pet Nutrition.

“Janic Capital’s investment philosophy is to back and partner with ethically aligned entrepreneurial owner managers, which have a proven track record of execution and creating value for all stakeholders. We believe Montego and the van Jaarsveld family encompass all these attributes and we are excited about partnering with them”, says Adriaan Dippenaar, Managing Director of Janic Capital.

The pet food industry is constantly changing and growing and offers great potential for companies forging ahead with innovative thinking and ethical business practices, according to van Jaarsveld.

“Montego’s success has always been a product of our strong entrepreneurial drive and commitment to our family values. This partnership with Janic Capital and the Dippenaar family and our shared approach to business positions us all well for continued success in the future,” concludes van Jaarsveld.