Zuke’s Selects Michael McCarthy as New Marketing Director

Durango, Colo. (October 19, 2010) –Zuke’s continues to lead the industry with its all-natural treats and chews and has added yet another key player to their management team.  Effective immediately Michael McCarthy will be leading the Zuke’s marketing team.

With over 16 years of marketing experience in various management roles with top-tier companies such as Nestle USA and Horizon Organic Dairy, McCarthy brings a wealth of experience to the role, promising a strong growth trajectory for Zuke’s through strategic marketing programs and branding initiatives. While at Nestle, McCarthy turned around a declining business in less than a year.  By gaining an intimate understanding of the competitive landscape and consumers’ true purchase motivations, he was able to refresh the product line in a way that resonated with both consumers and key retailers. McCarthy’s rigorous CPG training has resulted in a very disciplined and results-driven approach to product marketing; and his collaborative, cross-functional management style has facilitated his reputation as a strategic, results-oriented manager.

As McCarthy begins his strategic revamp of Zuke’s marketing initiatives, his initial focus will be to clearly define the target consumer and help to further articulate Zuke’s brand essence.  As the key purveyor of all consumer touch points, he will also work to bring the Zuke’s brand to life with break through marketing programs that align with key product attributes and resonate with the target consumers.

“We are bolstering our marketing, branding and innovation efforts, and Michael’s wealth of experience promises to open new doors for the Zuke’s brand and our exceptional products,” said Patrick Meiering, founder and CEO of Zuke’s.  “I look forward to working closely with Michael and his team to further the brand awareness and perception of Zuke’s, from our product to our company to our vision and values.”

“I am excited to join a team of passionate individuals and help accelerate the growth of a pioneering company,” said Michael McCarthy, newly appointed marketing director for Zuke’s.  “My consumer-centric approach to marketing will help us more clearly define our consumer and engage them in new ways.”

About Zuke’s

Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as  much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company  is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of  dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- ‐profit started by  Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to  The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

Media Contact:
Julie Snider- ‐Popp
Verde PR & Consulting
juliepopp@verdepr.com
(970) 259- ‐3555

Download Press Release (PDF)

Zuke’s Appoints John Hart as New President

Durango, Colo. (October 7, 2010) – Zuke’s, a leader in performance-driven, all natural pet treats and chews, today announced that it has named John Hart as president, effective immediately.

Hart brings over 15 years experience in the pet industry; most recently he served as chief executive officer and chief financial officer for Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Inc., where he successfully led the company through a transition from family to private equity ownership.  During his tenure with Eagle Pack Pet Foods, Hart also built an infrastructure to support growth of branded products, and developed a go-to-market strategy for a branded portfolio, which includes: product development, new brand launch, line extensions and a sales team implementation plan.  Previously, Hart held several sales, marketing and accounting roles primarily in the wine and spirits industry, where he led the development of sales goals, budget creation and allocation and financial performance tracking.

As Hart settles into his new role at Zuke’s, his primary focus will be to establish a global presence and awareness for the Zuke’s brand while building out an internal infrastructure to support and sustain the company’s growth.

Patrick Meiering, founder and chief executive officer for Zuke’s, will remain active in his current role, and will work closely with Hart to continue the Zuke’s tradition of sustainable growth through holistic products, loving devotion to our pets, and the promotion of leading a healthy active life with your pet.

“In an effort to increase efficiency and focus, my concentration will shift from traditional sales and operational functions to marketing, branding and innovation efforts, on which Zuke’s is founded,” said Meiering.  “Bringing a thoroughly seasoned and experienced president in John Hart will help Zuke’s build upon the 15 years we have devoted to the natural and organic movement in pet nutrition, while allowing me to focus on my strengths within the company as an innovator and entrepreneur.”

“I’m very excited to be joining the team at Zuke’s,” said Hart.  “The company’s long history of product innovation and pioneering in functional treats for pets has established them as a leader in the pet specialty treat category.  I’m looking forward to being a part of the exciting growth and innovation that lies ahead for Zuke’s.”

Meiering adds, “Zuke’s is well known for its all-natural, functional treats, as well as for its core values around our corporate social responsibility platform, such as green manufacturing and our sponsorship of the Dog & Cat Cancer Fund.  We look forward to continuing to enhance these core values and beliefs, and delivering uniquely natural, organic and functional pet products that are healthy and loved by people and pets alike.”
About Zuke’s

Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as  much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company  is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of  dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- ‐profit started by  Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to  The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

Media Contact:
Julie Snider- ‐Popp
Verde PR & Consulting
juliepopp@verdepr.com
(970) 259- ‐3555

Download Press Release (PDF)

Zuke’s Sponsors Dog Athletes

CSR initiatives includes athlete support, of the furry kind

Durango, Colo. (July 26, 2010) – Zuke’s, a leader in performance-driven, all natural pet treats, has several great components of it’s triple bottom line focus, including sponsoring dog’s athletic endeavors.

In March 2010, Zuke’s shared their corporate social responsibility report, which contained details around their environmental stewardship, their community involvements and their charitable support.  One intriguing component of their CSR initiatives includes their sponsorship of dog athletes, from Frisbee teams to search and rescue dogs to outdoor tour guides.

“Our company’s roots lie within the outdoors and around the concept of dog athletes,” said Patrick Meiering, founder of Zuke’s.  “We got our start in my garage in 1995 when I started creating my own version of today’s Power Bones with a hand mixer.  I was inspired to create all natural, performance-driven treats that would support my dog’s energy and body function on the trails after a long day of hiking.  Our energy- and nutrient-rich snacks provide dogs with the right punch of energy to support their vitality during training and competition.

Zuke’s currently sponsors a dozen or so dog athletes and teams, including the Flying Houndz Frisbee Team and the La Plata County Search and Rescue Team.

Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dog Show is a high-flying, action packed, thrilling show providing fun, family entertainment for a wide variety of venues.  Many of the dogs are rescues, and they are featured in professionally choreographed shows with world-class trick Frisbee dogs, presented by professional entertainers.

“Our dog family have been proudly sponsored by Zuke’s for four years and we are grateful to be part of a company that represents quality ingredients in their products, a genuine care for animals and the community along with owners and a staff that are sincere in their quest,” said Jeff Wright, founder of Flying Houndz Frisbee Trick Dog Show.  “Our relationship with Zuke’s has allowed us to reach people and their canines by letting us share the importance of good, healthy treats with wholesome ingredients.”

You can find out more about the Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dog Show and their tour by visiting www.flyinghoundzfrizbee.com.  Catch them performing at schools, festivals, women and men NBA and college halftime shows.

Also, for the past year, Zuke’s has been sponsoring the La Plata County Search and Rescue Canine Team is an all volunteer group of dogs and handlers who assist in locating lost persons on wilderness search and rescue missions.

“Search and rescue dogs are called upon to search for hours in difficult terrain, which requires a tremendous amount of energy,” said the La Plata County Search and Rescue Team Leader, Katie Steelman.  “The Zuke’s treats provide a healthy source of energy during trainings and missions, and the dogs love them. Since our team is self funded, the handlers appreciate the treats almost as much as the dogs!”

For more information about La Plata County Search and Rescue, visit La Plata County Search and Rescue.

Zuke’s is a great choice for supporting pets’ active lifestyles and is committed to using the finest ingredients and avoiding all those unnecessary additives and preservatives. Zuke’s meats, grains, fruits and veggies are sourced in the USA, with the exception of lamb and venison, which come from New Zealand. In Zuke’s treats you’ll never find any harsh preservatives like BHA, added animal fat or tallow, nasty by–products or artificial colors or flavors or low-cost fillers like wheat and corn.

To learn more about Zuke’s and their CSR, please visit their social media release site at http://www.verdepr.com/smr/zukes.  You may also download their full CSR report by clicking here

About Zuke’s

Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- ‐profit started by Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

Media Contact:
Julie Snider- ‐Popp
Verde PR & Consulting
juliepopp@verdepr.com
(970) 259- ‐3555

Download Press Release (PDF)

Zuke’s All-Natural Pet Treats Receives Support                   To Ensure Growth

Durango, Colo. (April 19, 2010) – Zuke’s, an industry leader in all-natural, performance driven pet treats, announced today that it has received an investment from Encore Consumer Capital, a consumer products focused private equity firm. This support and investment will allow Zuke’s to focus on marketing efforts to grow the brand with leading pet specialty, natural products and outdoor products retailers.

“We are very excited about the partnership and the many opportunities this will offer our customers, our retailers and our constituents,” says Patrick Meiering, founder of Zuke’s. “Encore Consumer Capital’s shared industry experience and expertise will help strengthen our branding and strategy as we get closer to achieving our sales, branding and marketing goals.”

Encore Consumer Capital is a $175 million private equity firm focused exclusively on consumer products.  Encore has invested in numerous food and consumer products companies including Aidells Sausage Company, Ciao Bella Gelato Company, MyChelle Dermaceuticals, and The Isopure Company.  Encore principals have experience working in and investing in the pet industry over the past 15 years.  Encore co-founder and Managing Director Scott Sellers commented:

“Zuke’s has built a terrific brand that is well respected for its high-quality natural treats, innovation and commitment to the pet specialty channel. We are excited to work with Patrick and the entire Zuke’s team to help them accomplish their goals.”

Patrick Meiering of Zuke’s continued “This additional backing will help us to continue to manufacture the highest-quality pet treats with all-natural ingredients including lean proteins, whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies.  It also helps us continue to support our company’s core values to operate as sustainably as possible and to support our local communities.  We look forward to reaching more consumers thanks to this partnership, in addition to enhancing our relationships with pet specialty, natural products and outdoor retailers.

About Zuke’s
Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as  much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company  is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of  dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- ‐profit started by  Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to  The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

About Encore Consumer Capital
Encore Consumer Capital (“Encore”) based in San Francisco is a private equity firm focused on investing in food and consumer products manufacturing and marketing companies. Encore manages more than $175 million in committed equity capital and is a partnership between experienced principal investors and veteran industry operators. Visit www.encoreconsumercapital.com for more information.

Media Contacts:
Verde PR & Consulting
Julie Snider-Popp
juliepopp@verdepr.com
970-259-3555

Download Press Release (PDF)

Zuke’s Sponsors Grant Berry and the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Cycling Team

DURANGO,Colo.(Feb. 2010) – Zuke’s, an industry leader in all-natural dog treats, is proud to sponsor cyclocross racer Grant Berry and the entire Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory cycling team.

“Zuke’s has been a presenting sponsor since the team’s inception in 2005. I am proud to represent Zuke’s on and off the bike as the performance-driven values of our team line up perfectly with how Zuke’s chooses to do business. Their support has been instrumental in the long-term success of our program.”

Berry has had a presence at races all over the country, and in many disciplines over the past few years. He has racked up many victories, including being named the 2001 Colorado State road race champion and the 2002 NORBA National Semi-Pro XC National Champion. Most recently, he was crowned the 2009 National Cyclocross champion after a masterful win in the 30-34 age bracket of the Cyclocross National Championships in Bend, OR.

Under the auspices of Grant Berry and Trevor Krueger, the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Cycling was formed in 2005. The team has had members make it on to all steps of the podium in many of the races in which they have been a part of. They showcase the best cycling talent Durango has to offer, with the aforementioned 2009 national championship win being but one in a series of victories claimed by the team over the years.

For more information on the team, please visit their Twitter at http://twitter.com/TeamRMCF or follow them on Facebook. Please visit the Zuke’s website and Social Media Release webpage for new products, as well as up-to-date company news, images and much more. And join the conversation on Facebook.

About Zuke’s™

Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all– natural treats, just as much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate lab, the company is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- profit started by Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

Zuke’s Continues Leadership in All-Natural, Sustainable Products and Manufacturing

Corporate Social Responsibility News

Durango, Colo. (March 25, 2010) – At Zuke’s, about the only thing they love as much as their pets is the planet. Zuke’s is proud of their efforts to provide exceptional quality treats for pets with the finest ingredients possible. As a company that loves pets and the outdoors, they are equally dedicated to protecting the environment, and continually looking for ways to increase their impact in their communities and decrease their footprint on Mother Earth. These efforts include special attention to their ingredient sourcing, as well as eco-conscious production and packaging initiatives.

“In addition to using eco-friendly packages, and alternative energies for our offices and manufacturing, we also offer eco-incentives to our employees,” says Patrick Meiering, founder of Zuke’s. “We offer incentives to employees if they chose to commute to the offices on their bikes, and we also power our offices with 100-percent green electricity.”

Additionally, all of Zuke’s packaging boxes are made with 100-percent recycled paperboard. The box itself is made smaller and filled fuller resulting in the use of 20-percent less material in their packaging than their competitors. Their baked products are also produced in a plant powered by 100-percent wind energy.

On top of their efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, Zuke’s also takes great strides to give back to its communities.  Just a couple of ways they do this is by continually donating a portion of all their proceeds to the Dog & Cat Cancer Fund (www.dccf.org), as well as supporting area humane societies and sponsoring dog athletes.

Zuke’s is also committed to using the finest ingredients and avoiding all those unnecessary additives and preservatives. Zuke’s meats, grains, fruits and veggies are sourced in the USA, with the exception of lamb and venison, which come from New Zealand. In Zuke’s treats you’ll never find any harsh preservatives like BHA, added animal fat or tallow, nasty by–products or artificial colors or flavors or low-cost fillers like wheat and corn.

To learn more about Zuke’s and their CSR, please visit their social media release site at http://www.verdepr.com/smr/zukes.  You may also download their full CSR report and learn more about The Zuke’s Difference.

About Zuke’s

Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as  much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company  is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of  dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non- ‐profit started by  Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to  The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.

Media Contact:
Julie Snider- ‐Popp
Verde PR & Consulting
juliepopp@verdepr.com
(970) 259- ‐3555

Download Press Release (PDF)