The pet food manufacturer Rondo Food, which is based in Germany, will close its plant in Arklow, Ireland, at the end of January 2020, according to reports by a number of news services. Up to 135 jobs will be lost when production is relocated to the company's headquarters in Krefeld (Germany). The company produces private-label treats for dogs and cats for several well-known European pet food companies.
Rondo Food started production in Ireland in 2011 with the acquisition of Gaines Europe. Reports indicate that sales by Rondo Food in Ireland fell by 12 per cent in 2018 to EUR 13.5 mio. "The unsatisfactory economic trend and market situation mean that it has become necessary to combine activities at our biggest plant in Germany," said a spokesperson for Rondo Food.