Nestlé invests over CHF 157 million to expand Purina pet food operations in Thailand amid rising regional demand

Nestlé commits more than CHF 157 million to enlarge its Purina pet food facility in Rayong, Thailand, highlighting a strategic move to capitalise on rising pet ownership and premium nutrition preferences across Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

Nestlé is committing more than CHF 157 million to enlarge its Purina pet food operations in Rayong, Thailand, in a move that underscores the group’s bet on premium pet nutrition and export growth across Asia, Oceania and Africa.

The expansion will lift output of dry food and treats for brands including Felix, Friskies, Pro Plan and Purina One, serving both the Thai market and overseas customers. Nestlé said the site will use a high share of locally sourced poultry, fish and vegetables, supporting Thai suppliers and domestic value creation.

According to the company, pet food now accounts for about 21 per cent of group sales. Remy Ejel, chief executive of Nestlé Zone AOA, said the investment reflected confidence in the segment’s long-term prospects. Hubert Wieser, chief executive of Nestlé Purina Petcare, said the region’s pet population is rising and owners are increasingly seeking functional products that support health and longevity.

The project comes as demand shifts away from home-prepared feeding towards packaged nutrition, especially in the premium category. It also follows major Purina capacity investments in Italy and the United States, and adds to Nestlé’s wider manufacturing push in Thailand, where it is also planning a new Nescafé production and distribution hub.