SÃO PAULO — BRF S.A. announced on Nov. 13 it has abandoned plans to sell its pet food business after exploring competitive sale opportunities earlier this year. 

The company partnered with Banco Santander in February to advise on the sale of its pet food operations but has ultimately decided to maintain the business.

“As the third-ranked player in the pet food market in Brazil and leader in super premium natural pet feed, the company will continue to drive growth in this segment by increasing distribution through specialized channel, strengthening brands strategy by segment and channel, consolidating integration synergies, and advancing the export expansion strategy,” the company stated.