Azalea Capital has made an investment in Ark Naturals, a maker of natural health products for dogs and cats. Partnering with Azalea in this investment are Ark’s founders, Susan and Jay Weiss, pet executive Michael Stoeckle, and the 4612 Group, an Atlanta-based investor in private companies.
Ark Naturals markets a full line of remedy, health and lifestyle products for dogs and cats under the Ark Naturals and Gray Muzzle Brands. All of the company’s products are manufactured in the United States in FDA and USDA approved facilities. The company was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Naples, FL (www.arknaturals.com).
Mr. Stoeckle has joined Ark as its President and CEO and Michelle Higdon, a colleague of Mr. Stoeckle and Azalea Capital, has joined the company’s board of directors. Susan and Jay Weiss will continue with the company, with Jay Weiss also serving on the board of directors.
“We were attracted to Ark due to its quality standards and history providing products that promote health and well-being through the natural and pet specialty channels,” said Mr. Stoeckle. “Building on the foundation developed by Susan and Jay, we will continue to invest in people, products and marketing to expand the awareness and availability of Ark’s superior product offerings beyond its devoted customer base.”
Mr. Stoeckle has 30 years of experience managing branded consumer packaged goods companies. He is the former VP of Corporate Strategy and VP of Sales and Marketing for Solid Gold Pet Food, a premium pet food company. Prior to Solid Gold, Mr. Stoeckle was VP of Sales for Waggin’ Train, a division of Nestle-Purina that produced a line of natural dog treats. Immediately prior to joining Ark, he was VP of Sales and Marketing for Spray and Forget, an outdoor cleaning products company.
Michelle Higdon has 20 years of experience in the consumer goods market and currently serves as the CEO of Rockford, IL-based Jones Naturals, a maker of all-natural pet treats and a portfolio company of Azalea since May 2016. Previously, Ms. Higdon was the CEO of Solid Gold Pet Food, as well as the President and COO of Waggin’ Train, which was acquired by Nestle-Purina in 2010.
Azalea Capital invests in middle market companies that have annual revenues of at least $10 million and EBITDAs of up to $8 million. Industries of interest include aerospace, business services, consumer products, energy services, healthcare, manufacturing, and value-added distribution. Azalea Capital was founded in 1996 and is headquartered in Greenville, SC (www.azaleacapital.com).
© 2017 Private Equity Professional | November 9, 2017
