Pet Product News - August 2016

BY ELLYCE ROTHROCK
Pet Product News: Tell us about Bark-
worthies’ progression from its roots to
present day.

Bill Chilian: Avrum Elmakis and his wife, Lauren, founded Barkworthies in 2012 on the belief that “simpler is better.” From day one, our mission has been to provide the most healthful, highest-qual-ity chews and treats. That’s why our products are never made with artificial ingredients, additives or preservatives—because we know it’s safer and more healthful to feed our canine companions sin-gle-ingredient or minimally processed foods. “Simpler is better” is also an approach to sourcing, processing and packaging that we practice every day.

Our original portfolio was built around bully sticks and quickly grew to include antlers, Today, Barkworthies offers well over 200 different items. What they all have in common is that they are all natural and fully digestible.

PPN: What can you tell us about Barkworthies’ new products for 2016 and beyond? BC: One trend we’re fully embracing is that pet owners are flocking to food and treats that are made and sourced in the USA. To help our retailer partners cater to this growing demand, we’ve significantly expanded our bone, antler and chew offerings that are domestically sourced and processed. This is why we introduced over 100 made in the USA items in the last two years.

We’re also addressing consumer demand for new products across a range of proteins, from traditional to exotic. One recent example is our Australian Gourmet line, which features proteins from novel sources like crocodile and kangaroo. And thanks to our talented product development team, there are more exciting items in the innovation pipeline we’ll be introducing later this year.

PPN: Customer education al-
ways is a priority for retailers.
How does Barkworthies help

Barkworthies made its debut with bully sticks just four years ago and has since grown to have a product portfolio of more than 200, including antlers, horns, bones, alternative chews and treats, says Bill Chilian, marketing vice president of the Richmond, Va., company.