Manna Pro Expands Market Presence

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Manna Pro Products, LLC, a manufacturer and marketer of animal nutrition and care products, has acquired Espree, a Texas-based company that formulates, manufactures and markets Aloe vera-based premium, wholesome, natural solutions for grooming and animal care.

Founded in 1989, Espree began with five products that combined the wisdom of nature with innovative technology. Over time, the company developed a strong groomer following and expanded the product line based on the requests of groomer customers. Today, Espree provides care and grooming products for dogs and cats, and fly control and grooming products for horses, available through pet specialty and farm and home retailers.

Pet services, including grooming, is a growing market. According to the American Pet Products Association, Americans spent $5.41 billion on grooming and boarding services in 2015. That spending was expected to reach $5.73 billion in 2016.

While Aloe vera is Espree’s cornerstone ingredient, the company continues to introduce innovative new ingredients to the grooming industry, most recently with its Oil Therapy product line for dogs.

“Manna Pro’s acquisition of Espree is a natural expansion of our small/companion animal business that began just over a year ago when we acquired the Nutri-Vet line of health and wellness supplements,” said Manna Pro Vice President of Marketing Beth Rogers. “This extension complements our focus on bringing innovative, safe, and effective products to pet owners and their animals – from horses and backyard poultry, goats, rabbits, cattle and pigs, to dogs and cats.”

“The mission of Espree is to improve the well-being of animals and enhance the care of pet professionals and animal lovers,” Espree founder and current Chief Creative Officer Teri Jones said. “Manna Pro is an ideal match to continue to bring natural, Aloe vera-based products to market to meet the needs of pet owners seeking natural and organic products that solve their pet’s issues safely and effectively.”

Acquisitions continue to play a key role in Manna Pro’s growth strategy. The company also recently completed a second acquisition this year in the companion animal category.