Area Development
Healthy Pet, a Germany-based global leader in natural fiber processing for use in pet care, will invest $9.3 million to expand its production plant and install new machinery and equipment that will provide for a new cat litter line at its existing facility in Wayne County, Georgia.

Founded in 1878 and based in Rosenberg, Germany, Healthy Pet is owned by J. Rettenmaier & Söhne Group, a family owned global leader in natural fiber processing for use in pet care, life sciences and a broad range of technical applications..

Healthy Pet currently has 55 employees in Jesup. The company’s investment will include equipment to automate their packaging operations. The company will source renewable pine wood chips produced within the region..

“Healthy Pet expanded to Wayne County almost 15 years ago due to the support and encouragement of the GDEcD and Wayne County Industrial Development Authority,” said Healthy Pet CEO Ted Mischaikov. “The relationship has been a positive one from the start and has now lead to follow-on investment which will end our reliance on imported product and launch domestic production of our fast growing cat litter.”.

“Healthy Pet reflects the kind of growth and longevity that we seek to cultivate in Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Our small business resources, and pro-business environment make it easy for companies to flourish here, and I look forward to their continued success.”.

“This is definitely good news for Healthy Pet and Wayne County. We are always thrilled when jobs come to Wayne County and excited that Healthy Pet has chosen to expand here. This industry has been extremely valuable to our community,” said IDA Executive Director Dell Keith.

IDA Chair Ralph Trapnell added,, “We appreciate Healthy Pet’s decision to remain in Wayne County and expand their operation here. We always strive to support existing industry and their growth in our community.” GDEcD Assistant Director of Entrepreneurs and Small Business, Ryan Waldrep, represented the Global Commerce division in partnership with the Wayne County Industrial Development Authority..