NEW YORK — Pet food brand Optimeal released an update on its parent company and manufacturer Kormotech on Aug. 21, revealing that the company’s facility in Ukraine is operating at 98% capacity despite the war.

“Our company and the Ukrainian people have been overwhelmed by the level of support we are receiving from across the world,” said Yulina Volk, director of new business development at Kormotech. “Rarely has the division between good and evil been starker.

“In these trying times, we thank you for your continued business and would like to remind you that every time you purchase Optimeal you are supporting the economy and people of Ukraine,” Volk added. “We are confident this situation will make us only stronger and in the words of the Ukrainian President: ‘Life will win over death, and light will win over darkness.’”

In 2005, Kormotech opened its first dry pet food plant in Ukraine and has remained in the country, exporting its products to the European market before launching Optimeal in the US pet food market in 2021. Since the opening of its Ukrainian facility, the company has been committed to Ukrainian people and pets, launching an initiative in 2014 to help animals and their owners as tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalated.

Despite Russia’s invasion of the country, Optimeal remains dedicated to serving the US pet food market, as well as supporting Kormotech and its facility in Ukraine. According to the brand, the safety of its employees is top of mind as Kormotech’s Ukrainian facility continues operating at nearly full capacity.

Since the start of Russia’s invasion, Kormotech has strived to help Ukraine by supporting its economy, people and pets. The company has launched the Save the Pets of Ukraine program in partnership with Greater Good Charities and has partnered with the International Animal Welfare Fund, Phillips Pet Food & Supplies, the American Pet Product Association (APPA) and others.

The company has also witnessed strong support from other countries, including the United States.

“The Ukraine brand is super powerful,” said Rostyslav Vovk, chief executive officer of Kormotech. “It has intensified thanks to all Ukrainians who invest in victory. The whole world perceives us as a country of free people. Kormotech has a strong reputation, that's why our brands are recognized and valued. We feel special support for our brand Optimeal in the United States from distributor Phillips Pet Food & Supplies and the whole American pet food community stands with Ukraine.”

As the war continues, Kormotech is seeking additional partnerships to help further support the country, its employees and Ukrainian pets.

“Kormotech vows to continue ensuring the safety of their employees while working tirelessly to boost the economy and protect animals from becoming collateral damage in the war,” the company shared in its update. “During these times it is more important than ever to purchase from socially responsible brands. Optimeal is a pet food brand you can feel good about spending your money on knowing it is going back to relief efforts in Ukraine.”

Many pet food manufacturers and pet retailers have expressed their support of Ukraine, donating funds  and supplies to help Ukrainian people and their pets, including Darwin’s Natural Pet Products, Zesty Paws and Solid Gold Pet, Ren’s Pets and others.

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