VAFO Group, a leading European producer of superpremium pet food, announces the acquisition of AZAN, one of the largest distributors in Poland and a long-standing partner. This strategic move strengthens VAFO’s presence in one of the key markets in Central and Eastern Europe, opens new growth opportunities, and ensures more direct contact with end customers. The acquisition is a natural outcome of nearly thirty years of collaboration and a shared business philosophy between the two companies.
The decision stems from a joint ambition to further support growth in the Czech, Slovak, and Polish markets, which are becoming increasingly interconnected and unified. Within the VAFO Group, AZAN will continue to build on its expertise in distribution and customer care. At the same time, the acquisition creates space for more efficient use of synergies in logistics, finance, and the sharing of best practices across the group. The Polish market remains one of VAFO’s most strategic; direct distribution in the country will allow the company to be even closer to customers and to respond more effectively to evolving market needs.
“We are very proud that, as a food distributor, we’ve reached a level of development that made us an attractive partner for a reputable company like VAFO. Instead of pushing us out, they saw our potential and recognized us as a valuable player in the market. For us, this proves that growth, quality, and commitment to the industry are key to building long-term, strategic partnerships,” adds Agnieszka Donicz, co-founder and CEO of AZAN.
“I’m happy to welcome AZAN to the VAFO family. They’ve been a key part of our success in the Polish market – a market that’s always felt a bit like home to us. We’ve had a factory there for five years already, and I believe more will follow. I’m also proud that with this step, we’re gaining a strong team and roughly a quarter of our colleagues will now be based in Poland. This acquisition is an important step in fulfilling our strategy to remain a leading pet food company in Europe,” says Pavel Bouška, Chairman of the Board of VAFO Group, which ranks among the five largest pet food producers in Europe. In 2024, the group reported revenues of approximately EUR 605 million.
AZAN was founded in 1997 by siblings Agnieszka Donicz and Krzysztof Furdal. The name derives from the phrase “A to Z Animals”. What began as a small family business has grown into a leading distribution company that now supplies products to nearly 7,000 customers in specialized retail, veterinary care, and modern retail. In addition to distribution, AZAN develops its own e-commerce platforms and the snack brand Azanki. The company currently employs more than 80 people and will now, as part of the VAFO Group structure, continue to develop its professional competencies and regional expertise. The partnership between the two companies dates back to the year 2000, when AZAN became one of VAFO’s first international partners.
The acquisition is thus a natural continuation of a successful collaboration and a key step in further strengthening the group’s activities in the Polish market.
Anna Derlatka
