Since 2015, Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul, LLC, based in Cos Cob, Connecticut, has utilized Food Export–Northeast’s programs and services to grow its international presence. This manufacturer of super-premium, holistic food and treats for dogs and cats began working with Food Export a decade ago to increase global brand awareness and expand its export footprint.
One of the key tools in their export strategy has been Food Export’s Market Builder program, which helps U.S. suppliers identify new distributors and importers for their products. This customizable service provides expert analysis of a product’s potential in targeted international markets and includes two components—Market Scan and Rep Finder—which can be used independently or as a package.
Through the Rep Finder service, Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul connected with a new distributor in South Korea. As a result, the company is now on track to double its sales to the market.
The Connecticut supplier has also participated in the Market Access Program (MAP)-funded Branded Program since 2015. This cost-share reimbursement program supports international marketing efforts and allows U.S. brands to offset expenses tied to global promotions. Over the years, Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul has promoted its products in markets including Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, Korea, Taiwan, Panama, Chile, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.
Most recently in 2024, the company used Branded Program funding to support promotional efforts in China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, and Taiwan. Activities included:
These efforts led to strong sales in all five markets, with projected sales growth expected over the next twelve months.
Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul, LLC is committed to making premium pet nutrition accessible for all pet owners by offering high-quality, affordable products. Since 2016, the company has also participated in a range of other Food Export activities, including the Online Product Catalog, Product Showcase events, Focused Trade Missions, Food Show PLUS!, Buyers Missions, and educational webinars—all of which have contributed to their expanding international success.
Food Export uses funding from the Market Access Program (MAP) to help America’s small businesses increase their exports of food and agricultural products. As these exports increase, these small businesses are creating jobs and improving the strength and stability of our agricultural economy. Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast are non-profit organizations that work in collaboration with their member state departments of agriculture and the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service. They offer a wide range of programs and services that help boost America’s agricultural exports.
Market Builder Program Success
Branded Program Participant since 2015
Increased Export Sales to Multiple Markets
