May 17, 2013

When the economic downturn hit in 2009, Glenn and Sherry Forrester, like so many others, were hit with the loss of their jobs.  But the couple found an opportunity, and with financing from both the BDC and Elgin CFDC, they acquired an existing business and relocated it to the city of St. Thomas.

Pets 4 Life is a pet food manufacturing business.  The Pets 4 Life primary product line is a natural, holistic pet food made from Canadian meat and agricultural ingredients, frozen and conveniently portioned for individual meals that are thawed for each pet.  They also supply a line of pet treats made from dried/smoked animal proteins.

The products are distributed by an Ontario pet product distributor and sold to pet stores, breeders and veterinary clinics.  The products appeal to pet owners interested in natural and local produced products and these features are promoted strongly through their labelling and promotional material.

The business has been operating in St. Thomas since 2010, and it is currently reviewing options for expansion and increased production.

Pets 4 Life was successful in not only creating employment for the owners but has provided employment for 4 full time and 1 part time employees as well. The product is sold in over 200 pet retail stores across Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes.  Pets 4 Life purchases inputs from across Canada (salmon products come from as far as BC).  The business has sales growth of over 70% per year since receiving funding from Elgin CFDC.

The business has expanded the economic diversification in this area by tapping into the pet industry sector and Elgin CFDC is now involved in several other pet food manufacturing businesses and several agri-ceutical manufacturers as this sector grows. 

Photo:  Glenn and Sherry Forrester with dog Tobi