SEATTLE — Pet Food Express (PFE), an omnichannel pet food and supplies retailer, received an investment from Seattle-based Rainier Partners, a private equity firm, on June 8. According to Rainier, the investment will allow PFE to expand its operations and customer base.

PFE was founded in 1980 by Michael Levy, who is currently chief executive officer of the company, and has since grown to include more than 60 retail locations throughout California. The retailer offers a variety of healthy pet foods, high-quality supplies and services to its customers. PFE also supports more than 300 local pet charities and shelters, providing them with fundraising aid, product donations, volunteers and adoption support.

“Now more than ever, pet owners are looking for ways to do what is best for their pets, and PFE has provided this level of service for more than 30 years with the right products and a highly trained staff,” said Jon Altman, co-founder and managing partner at Rainier.

Founded in 2020, Rainier will help PFE continue to grow and maintain its high-quality standards, focusing on value creation.

“Not only does PFE align with Rainier’s investment focus in the consumer services sector, but the company’s commitment to doing what’s best for pets and their potential for growth elevate this partnership into something truly exciting for everyone involved,” said Alex Rolfe, co-founder and managing partner at Rainier.

Rainier’s investment will help PFE accelerate its e-commerce capabilities, as well as expand its brick-and-mortar locations.

“For over 30 years, my business partner Mark Witriol and I grew PFE without outside investment, so when it came time to choose a partner, we were very selective,” Levy said. “We wanted a partner that truly understood our mission and our work in the pet community. We were extremely fortunate to find a cultural match with the team at Rainier; we could not be more excited for what the company will accomplish with Rainier’s support.”

PFE currently offers a variety of dog and cat food and treats, supplements and toppers from premium brands, including ACANA, Primal Pet Food, Open Farm, Fromm, Stella & Chewy’s, The Honest Kitchen, Nulo, Wellness Pet Company and more.

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