Story Created:
Jul 5, 2010 at 7:37 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Aug 4, 2010 at 5:37 PM CDT
All companies, no matter how big or small, start off somewhere. And for Oxbow Animal Health that somewhere was Murdock, Nebraska. This pet food provider went from distributing to just a few stores to distributing worldwide.
Tonight as part of her in depth report, Farming Into the Future, News 5's Rachel Lake shows us how this company has found success.
From New York to California to Australia to Finland. You can find bags of their food in 26 different countries and across the US.
"Well it is really rewarding. I am really thankful that we have been blessed. We really had the right idea at the right time," said John Miller.
Miller is the president and CEO of Oxbow Animal Health which began in the early 90's. Originally, this company produced horse feed, but then the focus changed.
"As the pet industry grew we gradually did less and less for horses and now everything we produce and package is for pet rabbits and guinea pigs," Miller said.
Getting the Oxbow name out there began with just one client.
"I was fortunate enough to have one distributor in Kansas City who was willing to carry my bag of alfalfa and that gave me hope and I will forever be grateful to him for giving me that hope," said Miller.
Overtime, Miller attracted more clients and not just by word of mouth.
"So that was really important for our growth was exposure through the Internet and gradually gained distribution to a few stores," said Miller.
The company's website provides more than just exposure; it is also an educational tool. Customers can easily find out which foods are appropriate for their animals.
"So our goal is not to make a product that we can sell a whole bunch of our goal is to educate consumers, educate pet owners and what's best for that animal and then provide that for them," Dr. Micah Kohles.
The Oxbow product line has expanded. Not only does this company provide food, but supplements, accessories and bedding among other items.
"Everybody works really hard to make sure we put a premium product into the Oxbow brand," said Miller.
A brand that once stood on the shelves of one store and now graces the shelves of hundreds.
Miller said Oxbow Animal Health grew 16% last year. He expects to see similar growth this year.
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