Lincoln International’s experts analyze the trends from Global Pet Expo 2026 driving an M&A increase in the global pet sector.

1. Humanization Continues to Accelerate Shift Toward Functional and Premium Nutritional Benefits

The humanization of pets continues to drive convergence between human and pet consumables. Ingredients, formulations and marketing claims are increasingly aligned with those seen in better-for-you human food categories.

High-protein diets, limited-ingredient formulations and “real food” positioning—featuring recognizable meats and whole-food ingredients—are becoming standard across premium offerings. Fresh, refrigerated and minimally processed formats continue to gain traction, supported by consumer perception of superior quality and digestibility.

Functional health benefits are no longer limited to supplements and are increasingly embedded across everyday pet nutrition. Treats, toppers and complete meals are being formulated with added functional ingredients such as probiotics, fiber and condition-specific nutrients, allowing pet owners to take a more proactive and personalized approach to pet health.

2. Ingredient Transparency and Clean Label Are Table Stakes

Pet owners are placing increasing emphasis on ingredient quality, sourcing and transparency. Simple ingredient decks and clear labeling are now baseline expectations, particularly within premium segments.

Claims such as “no artificial additives,” “no fillers” and “made with real ingredients” remain prominent, while sourcing transparency and manufacturing standards are becoming more visible in brand messaging.

3. Premiumization Persists, with Greater Focus on Value Justification

The pet category continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by consumers’ willingness to invest in pet health and longevity. However, increased price sensitivity is driving closer scrutiny of value.

Consumers are increasingly evaluating products based on clear, tangible benefits relative to price, supporting growth in offerings that balance premium attributes with accessibility.

4. Channel Strategy and Brand Building Remain Critical

E-commerce and subscription models continue to shape purchasing behavior, particularly for recurring consumables. At the same time, physical retail remains a critical component of channel strategy for brand visibility, product discovery and trial. Within brick-and-mortar (B&M), consumers are increasingly valuing the convenience of food, drug and mass over pet specialty and independents.

As a result, channel conflict considerations have evolved materially, with the independent and pet specialty channels seeking out high-performing brands regardless of presence in other channels to try to drive traffic to their locations. Brands are also increasingly investing in education-driven marketing, transparency and direct consumer engagement to build trust and loyalty in a competitive landscape.

5. Innovation Becomes More Focused and Disciplined

Innovation across the category is increasingly centered around line extensions, formulation improvements and targeted benefits, rather than broad category expansion.

Retailers are placing greater emphasis on product velocity and productivity, raising the bar for new product introductions and reinforcing the importance of brand consistency.

6. Buyers Are Back with Expectations for Increased M&A Activity

Following a slower pet M&A environment in 2025, buyers were out in full force at the show. Lincoln met with a number of strategic and financial buyers, all of which are actively seeking acquisitions and have the capital to deploy. Buyer interest spans both branded platforms and manufacturing assets, signaling a constructive backdrop for a rebound in deal activity heading into 2026.