Marshall Acquires Earth''s Balance Brand

 Marshall Pet Products, a Wolcott, N.Y.-based manufacturer of small animal, dog and cat products, reported today that it has acquired the rights to the Earth's Balance pet product brand. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The acquisition brings two new product categories—lawn care and avian—to Marshall and expands upon the company's exisiting dog and cat categories, said Diane Vair, Marshall's product marketing manager.

Earth's Balance products include G-Whiz lawn burn preventative, Dogonit natural lawn repair, Pet Solutions Rx avian first aid treatment, and Itch Free, Dander Free and Skunk Free skin and coat products, among others.

Earth's Balance products will continue to be produced in Bedford Park, Ill. Earth's Balance founder and president Leo Malantis will continue on as the product formulator and manufacturer, said Vair. Marshall Pet Products will lead up the sales and marketing initiatives, which will include a brand revamp and relaunch, she said.

Peter Reid, president and COO of Marshall Pet Products, described the new relationship as "completely synergistic."

"Our direction to produce all natural, safe and healthy solutions for pets, home and lawn fit perfectly," Reid said.

Malantis echoed Reid's sentiments.

"Teaming up with Marshall is the greatest move we could have made," Malantis said. "They have an excellent reputation within the industry and have a commitment to quality that we both share. We look forward to the transition and moving forward with the brand."