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Agrolimen was founded by Lluís Carulla Canals
in 1937. It now operates 28 production units and is
represented in more than 80 countries. It produces consumer
goods and employs a total of 10,000 people. The company's
greatest strengths are in branding, technological research
and marketing.
Affinity was established in 1963 as a joint venture
50% owned by Ralston Purina Co. and 50% by Agrolimen,
with the aim of marketing agricultural products. In 1976,
it launched its first dog food, and by May 1996 it was
100% dedicated to the pet food business.The last few
years have been crucial both for the company and the
pet food industry as a whole, with three major turning
points.
First, in January 2001, Nestlé announced its
intention to acquire Ralston Purina.Second, in January
2002, Agrolimen agreed to purchase 50% of the Ralston-Purina-owned
Gallina Blanca Purina, together with Ralston Purina's
shares in Premium in Italy and Greece, the aim being
to form a single entity.
The acquisition was completed in March 2002.Finally,
in July 2002, Agrolimen purchased Boxco following the
divestment decision relating to the acquisition of Royal
Canin by Masterfoods.
Affinity is now the third biggest European producer
of dry pet food.
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