Founders | PetCo Group
»A high-quality food from Austria - that must be possible!«
Katharina and Stefan Miklauz are the dedicated founders of the PetCo Group. When the two animal lovers met by chance on a dog walk, they had no idea where their common path would lead them. Having grown up in an animal-loving family, Katharina was aware of the great responsibility she had taken on for another living being when she got her first dog. She wanted to offer her Golden Retriever dog Nala high-quality food. Preferably one that is sustainably produced in Austria using regional raw materials. However, despite an extensive search for suitable food, Katharina was unable to find what she was looking for.
Then came the day when Stefan and his dog Pluto crossed paths. Both the two-legged and the four-legged friends immediately hit it off. It didn't stop at the one meeting. The rest is - so to speak - family history. This in turn is closely linked to the history of PetCo. After realising that no one in Austria had yet come up with the idea of producing regional and sustainable dog food, Katharina and Stefan decided to take the plunge. PetCo GmbH was officially founded in 2014. DOG'S LOVE, the company's flagship product, quickly conquered the market. Clearly, Katharina was not the only one looking for high-quality food that could be fed with a clear conscience.
»We would prefer to provide all the animals with the best food. «
The family business has continued to develop ever since. Thanks to the company's organically grown structure, fast decision-making processes and very personalised customer contact are possible. Katharina and Stefan are always involved when new products are developed. The goal is and remains: The production of excellent food for pets. The founding of the CAT'S LOVE, WOW and PURE NATURE brands were the logical next steps following the success of DOG'S LOVE. The unbroken demand continues to drive the two founders to provide as many animals as possible with healthy food.
Katharina
Founder
Katharina Miklauz, an entrepreneur born in vienna, is co-founder and CMO of the PetCo Group. With a diverse background in luxury lifestyle PR and experience as editor-in-chief of women's magazines, she brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic insight to her role. As the driving force behind product development, Katharina also acts as Creative Director for PetCo's distinctive brands. Her deep passion for animals, shaped by growing up with a family dog, is the basis for her commitment to pet welfare. Katharina's journey to the pet industry exemplifies her versatility and dedication. Her leadership at PetCo reflects a harmonious fusion of creative flair, business acumen and genuine love of animals that contributes to the company's success in providing innovative and caring products for pet owners.
Stefan
Founder
Stefan Miklauz, an entrepreneur born in vienna, is a visionary leader with a background in economics. Together with Niki Lauda, Stefan Miklauz founded the innovative short-term car rental company LaudaMotion and proved his entrepreneurial skills when he successfully sold LaudaMotion as the largest low-cost car rental company to Deutsche Bahn. Constantly striving for new ideas, Stefan co-founded the PetCo Group in 2014, where he now serves as CEO. His role includes the management of production partners, distribution channels and key accounts. Stefan's journey from revolutionising the transport industry to shaping PetCo's strategic direction highlights his versatility and commitment to innovation. As a key architect of PetCo's success, Stefan combines his entrepreneurial spirit with a strategic mindset to ensure PetCo remains a leader in the dynamic and evolving pet industry.
