Posted:
Joint Media Release: RCL FOODS and Martin & Martin (Pty) Ltd
RCL FOODS signs agreement to acquire Martin & Martin (Pty) Ltd
Tuesday, 31 March 2026
RCL FOODS and Martin & Martin (Pty) Ltd are pleased to announce that RCL FOODS has signed a binding sale agreement with Simrose Overseas S.A to acquire Martin and Martin (Pty) Ltd for R695 million. Martin & Martin produces and sells a portfolio of pet food and pet care products, including wet dog and cat food, biscuits, treats and pet care items marketed under well-known and trusted brands such as Husky, Pamper, Beeno, and Bob Martin.
The completion of the acquisition remains subject to the fulfilment of several conditions precedent and will only become effective once these have been fulfilled, including approval from the relevant Competition Authorities.
This agreement marks an important milestone for both organisations, representing a significant step in expanding RCL FOODS currently limited participation in the wet pet food and pet care categories. The pet food sector continues to present an attractive growth opportunity, supported by strong consumer trends such as the humanisation of pets and a growing community of pet parents who are increasingly focused on improving the quality and longevity of their pets’ lives.
RCL FOODS’ current pet portfolio is primarily focused on dry food. The proposed acquisition represents a meaningful opportunity to diversify into fast-growing segments such as wet foods, biscuits, treats and pet care products. It also supports the Group’s strategic ambition to grow the value-added branded component of its portfolio through the addition of strong, established pet brands and complementary capabilities to meet customer expectations.
Commenting on the announcement, RCL FOODS CEO, Paul Cruickshank said:
“This acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to broaden our participation in the pet food category and accelerate our presence in high-growth segments where we currently have limited exposure. By bringing together the complementary capabilities of RCL FOODS and Martin & Martin, we are positioning ourselves to deliver greater innovation, relevance and value to customers, while building a stronger, more sustainable pet food portfolio for the future.”
Welcoming the transaction, Martin & Martin Managing Director Brendan Hayes said:
“Joining forces with RCL FOODS would mark a significant milestone in Martin & Martin’s journey. We are excited about the strong synergies this partnership would bring, enabling us to serve the market with a broader range of innovative products. For our customers, this would translate into enhanced value and a shared commitment to quality and the future of the pet care category.
“Furthermore, by leveraging RCL FOODS’ extensive expertise and central business resources, our team would have greater opportunities to grow, innovate, and thrive within a larger, more diversified group. We look forward to this next chapter and the collective success it would bring.”
The proposed acquisition also supports the continuation and enhancement of local production capacity. With its strong manufacturing and operational capabilities, RCL FOODS is well positioned to support and grow Martin & Martin’s established operations. By integrating selected capabilities over time and leveraging RCL FOODS’ central business services platform, the Group aims to strengthen its foundation for long-term growth in the pet category.
There are no job losses anticipated as a result of the transaction, and no immediate changes for employees. Martin & Martin will continue to operate from its existing facilities, ensuring continuity and stability for its workforce.