Candy maker Mars expands its pet care network

Mars, the candy giant which also backs key pet food brands like Pedigree and Whiskas has initiated a roughly $9.1 billion deal to buy pet health care provider VCA.

While consumers may be most familiar with Mars as the maker of Snickers, M&M’S, and Wrigley's Doublemint gum, the company also has a firm stake in the world of pet care, owning Banfield Pet Hospital and several pet food brands. The deal to acquire VCA, which includes $1.4 billion in outstanding debt, will allow Mars to incorporate a network of roughly 800 animal hospitals in the U.S. and Canada.

“VCA is a leader across pet health care and the opportunity we see together, for pets, pet owners, veterinarians and other pet care providers, is tremendous,'' Grant  Reid, Mars' CEO, said in a statement.

VCA will remain a separate business unit under the Mars Petcare umbrella, and will still be helmed by its CEO and co-founder Bob Antin. The deal is expected to be finalized during the third quarter of this year.