Business Breakthrough in Chile for Tyrone Animal Health Leader

Oralade, a world leading oral rehydration drink for sick or recovering pets developed and manufactured by Macahl Animal Health in Co Tyrone, is set to be exported for veterinary use in Chile.

An initial contract for the Moy firm’s veterinary product range is worth at least £40,000 and is Macahl’s first-ever business in Chile and the wider South American market.

The family-run company already supplies the unique functional drink for dogs and cats to around 40 export markets from its production operation in Moy, and domestically supplies more than 40 per cent of the UK’s 5,000 veterinary clinics.

The latest deal is with Santiago-based Agrovet, Chile’s leader in veterinary products since 1974, and it follows the participation by Macahl managing director Anthony Mackle in a recent Invest NI trade mission to the region.

Exports drove Macahl’s 40 per cent growth last year and will also mean two new management level jobs this year in addition to the eight people currently employed in administration and production at Moy.

Mr Mackle said: “I’d been researching the region for some time and identified substantial opportunities especially in Chile, a sophisticated marketplace with a high level of pet ownership and care and an extensive network of veterinary clinics.

“Taking part in the Invest NI mission was an effective way to gain first-hand knowledge of the market and to meet potential distributors identified through initial desk research.

“The trade mission was a real eye opener with several offers for partnership, but it was Agrovet that was quick to spot the business potential of Oralade, a new and unique product for the pet market. I was delighted at the interest shown in the product and found Chile to be a good place to do business.”

Mr Mackle developed Oralade with his late father John, founder of industry-leading Mackle Pet Foods, also based in Moy, in 2006.

“He had an idea to develop a practical and functional rehydration drink for pets, and after extensive research the resulting product was Oralade GI Support, a ready to serve solution that helps quickly replenish lost fluids and electrolytes and nutrients in pets.

“Our unique formula contains specific products which no other product worldwide can offer, and is suitable for any cat or dog and in some markets hedgehogs and wildlife, stretching as far as lions in the wild in South Africa.”

Source: irishnews.com