Zuke’s Selects Michael McCarthy as New Marketing Director

Durango, Colo. (October 19,2010) – Zuke’s continues to lead the industry with its all-natural treats and chews and has added yet another key player to their management team. Effective immediately Michael McCarthy will be leading the Zuke’s marketing team.

With over 16 years of marketing experience in various management roles with top-tier companies such as Nestle USA and Horizon Organic Dairy, McCarthy brings a wealth of experience to the role, promising a strong growth trajectory for Zuke’s through strategic marketing programs and branding initiatives. While at Nestle, McCarthy turned around a declining business in less than a year. By gaining an intimate understanding of the competitive landscape and consumers’ true purchase motivations, he was able to refresh the product line in a way that resonated with both consumers and key retailers. McCarthy’s rigorous CPG training has resulted in a very disciplined and results-driven approach to product marketing; and his collaborative, cross-functional management style has facilitated his reputation as a strategic, results-oriented manager.

As McCarthy begins his strategic revamp of Zuke’s marketing initiatives, his initial focus will be to clearly define the target consumer and help to further articulate Zuke’s brand essence. As the key purveyor of all consumer touch points, he will also work to bring the Zuke’s brand to life with break through marketing programs that align with key product attributes and resonate with the target consumers.

“We are bolstering our marketing, branding and innovation efforts, and Michael’s wealth of experience promises to open new doors for the Zuke’s brand and our exceptional products,” said Patrick Meiering, founder and CEO of Zuke’s. “I look forward to working closely with Michael and his team to further the brand awareness and perception of Zuke’s, from our product to our company to our vision and values.”

“I am excited to join a team of passionate individuals and help accelerate the growth of a pioneering company,” said Michael McCarthy, newly appointed marketing director for Zuke’s. “My consumer-centric approach to marketing will help us more clearly define our consumer and engage them in new ways.”

About Zuke’sâ„¢
Zuke’s was founded in 1995 on the realization that pets need healthy, all–natural treats, just as much as people do. Named after the founder, Patrick Meiering’s loving chocolate Lab, the company is dedicated to creating tasty, healthful treats and chews that meet the unique nutritional needs of dogs and cats to keep them performing at their best. Zuke’s also supports a non-profit started by Meiering in memory of his companion. Each year, the company donates a portion of its profits to the Dog and Cat Cancer Fund in memory of Zuke. Visit them online at www.dccfund.org.

Since 2001 Zuke’s has been headquartered in Durango, Colo. and was chosen as one of the Top 50 Colorado Companies to Watch in 2009. Visit www.zukes.com for more information.