US-based private-equity firm Entrepreneurial Equity Partners has invested in family-owned pet-food company Bil-Jac Foods.

The companies did not disclose the financial terms of the transaction nor the size of the investment interest in a joint statement.

Established over 75 years ago, Bil-Jac Foods offers “premium” dog food and treats. The product range includes dry kibble, soft and chewy treats, as well as wet-food and frozen variants catering to various nutritional needs.

The company operates facilities in Berlin, Maryland, and Medina, Ohio.

Ryan Schweet, a partner at Entrepreneurial Equity Partners, said: “Bil-Jac has a stellar legacy of producing superior pet products, and we are committed to supporting Bil-Jac’s growth with additional resources to better serve the needs of our customers.

The investor added it will "support Bil-Jac in continuing to deliver premium products to its customers while helping the brand reach its next stage of growth".

In conjunction with the investment, Ray Kelly, whose father founded Bil-Jac in 1947, also joined the pet-food company’s board.

Meanwhile, former Petco CEO Ron Coughlin has joined Bil-Jac’s board of directors as executive chairman and an investor.

Coughlin said: “Bil-Jac is an iconic and highly respected brand with a rich history and deep trust among pet parents".

He added that he will assist the company to “develop a strategic growth plan that ensures even more dogs can benefit from Bil-Jac’s commitment to quality, nutrition and care”.