Ralston Purina

Ralston Purina Company was an American animal feed, food, and pet food company founded in 1894. With its headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, Ralston Purina has played a significant role in the development of animal nutrition products and has been a pioneer in the pet food industry. The company's history is marked by innovation and expansion, eventually leading to its acquisition by Nestlé in 2001, forming Nestlé Purina PetCare.

History

The Ralston Purina Company was established in 1894 by William H. Danforth, George Robinson, and William Andrews. Initially, the company focused on animal feed products and introduced the checkerboard logo, which became synonymous with the brand. The name "Ralston" stems from Danforth's involvement with the Ralstonism movement, which emphasized health and nutrition, principles that were incorporated into the company's products.

Throughout the 20th century, Ralston Purina expanded its product line to include various pet food brands, becoming a leader in the pet food industry. The company was also involved in other industries, including cereals and food products for human consumption, under the Ralston name.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Ralston Purina streamlined its operations to focus more on pet food, selling off unrelated businesses. This strategic focus helped solidify its position in the pet food market.

Acquisition by Nestlé

In December 2001, Nestlé acquired Ralston Purina for $10.3 billion, merging it with Nestlé's Friskies PetCare Company to form Nestlé Purina PetCare. This merger created one of the largest pet food companies in the world, combining the strengths and expertise of both entities. The acquisition allowed Nestlé Purina PetCare to expand its global reach and product offerings, continuing the legacy of innovation and quality established by Ralston Purina.

Products

Ralston Purina was known for its wide range of animal and pet food products. Some of its most popular brands included Purina Dog Chow, Purina Cat Chow, and Purina Pro Plan. The company was also known for its Checkerboard Square headquarters in St. Louis, which became a landmark in the city.

Legacy

The legacy of Ralston Purina continues under the Nestlé Purina PetCare brand, with a continued focus on nutrition, quality, and innovation in pet food. The company's commitment to pet welfare and nutrition research has made it a leader in the industry, with products that cater to the health and well-being of pets around the world.