In 2023, the pet food and treat industry reached $64.4 billion in sales, a 10.8% increase from 2022, according to the American Pet Products Association. Additionally, consumer demand continues to propel the industry to new heights with predictions estimating the industry will reach around $112 billion in sales by 2030. It’s safe to say the pet food industry is booming.

To reach these lofty goals, as well as keep pace with evolving demand, processors are beginning to implement more innovative production technologies, especially automation and robotics equipment.

“Increase in demand for pet foods, diversification of product offerings, and growth in this market is pushing processors to add new production lines and more operators to satisfy demand,” said Krupa Ravichandraan, sales product manager at Bosch Rexroth, which operates a US headquarters in Charlotte, NC. “But that alone will not satiate consumer demand in a profitable and sustainable way. Automation and robotics could play a huge role in solving most of these challenges.”

Keith Wilcox, president of Lake Odessa, Mich.-based APEC (Automated Process Equipment Corporation) USA, added, “In the evolving world of pet food processing, automation and robotics are game changers for the industry. These types of technologies are not just about efficiency; they bring an advantage that can take the industry to the next level.”