TANKO has managed, in about 12 years, to become one of the leading dry pet food companies in Greece. Mr. Takis Konstantakopoulos, CEO of Tanko and one of its founders, speaks with us about the company and the Pet Food category in Greece and abroad.
Interview by Vassilis Gouliemos
– What inspired you to create Tanko?
Our love for companion animals and our knowledge that proper nutrition significantly contributes to their health, longevity, and overall well-being.
– What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to face on the journey from Tanko’s creation to today?
2018 was an extremely difficult year for Tanko. A fire broke out at the factory and completely destroyed our production unit, despite the heroic efforts of firefighters and volunteer teams. Fortunately, there was no danger or harm to our employees or partners. With God’s help, the dedication of our people, and the support and trust of all our associates—banks, suppliers, and customers—we managed to very quickly build a new factory and continued with even more energy to serve the vision of our company.
– So you now have a new factory?
Our new factory, which resumed operations in 2020, is state-of-the-art with advanced mechanical equipment. We have invested in a fully automated dry food production unit for dogs and cats, with an annual production capacity of 170,000 tons—one of the largest factories in our category to date in Southeastern Europe. Considering the climate crisis and the green transition of our company, we have upgraded the energy efficiency of our facility by installing a modern photovoltaic station on its roof, contributing to environmentally responsible operation.
– Has the factory’s modernization helped increase productivity and optimize the production line?
Absolutely. We have ensured greater flexibility, increased productivity, focused on synergies and economies of scale, and reduced production costs. But what is also very important to us is that modernization safeguards our commitment to producing tasty and nutritious food for dogs and cats—of high quality and across a wide range of price points—ensuring that complete and balanced food is accessible to all our customers for their pets.
– Are you preparing anything new at Tanko?
For the past year, we’ve been systematically working on a transformation program for Tanko, upgrading our customer experience both in the Greek market and abroad. This includes renewing our corporate identity and shaping a new marketing and rebranding strategy. We are also creating our new website, tankopetfood.com, and we’re planning to relaunch two new product lines in the Premium category this September. We created a new logo, inspired by our belief that the bond between people and pets like dogs and cats is so strong, deep, and mutual that it makes them true family members. Therefore, “Pets are Family.” This motto is now inextricably linked to our vision and mission.
– How does your “Pets are Family” philosophy influence your approach to pet food production and development?
Throughout our journey, we have focused on creating high-standard products by strictly adhering to all relevant domestic and European regulations, ensuring excellent health and safety conditions for our employees. Just as we prepare meals for our own families, we start with responsibly sourced raw materials distinguished for their quality and nutritional value. Our quality control department is equipped with modern instruments that allow us to conduct thorough checks at all stages of the production process—from raw material receipt to the final product. Driven by our love for animals, Tanko’s R&D team collaborates with specialists.
– Do you have a communication plan for your renewed corporate identity?
Certainly. We will invest in communication, prioritizing the digital ecosystem.
– How do you see the Pet Food industry evolving in the coming years?
The “humanization” of pets is the dominant trend in the market, which is expanding globally and creating a thriving industry. According to Bloomberg Intelligence research, the industry’s value is expected to rise from today’s $320 billion to $500 billion by 2030. The impressive growth rate of the global market for companion animal products and services is also affecting our country. In this context, the development of exports offers new opportunities. Our company is already active in international markets and aims to further strengthen its presence with products that are competitive in terms of both quality and price. Additionally, we aim to support the Greek economy and primary sector by using Greek raw materials whenever possible and by strengthening the domestic supply chain.