EBOS says it has bought BlackHawk Premium Pet Care for $57.8 million as part of its expansion into the premium pet food sector.
The phamarceutical and medical supplies company's chief executive, Patrick Davies, said the purchase would immediately add to per-share earnings and has been funded from existing banking facilities.
Mr Davies said the purchase was strategically important for EBOS' animal care division and he estimated the premium pet food market in Australia was worth about $720 million.
He said BlackHawk was a rapidly growing player in that market and sells exclusively through Australian pet stores and veterinary clinics.
