Tyson Pet Products Inc., a subsidiary of Tyson Foods Inc. of Springdale, Ark., has created a line of dog chews, Tyson officials said Feb. 5. The True Chews dog treats are a way for the company to expand its pet products division while taking advantage of a “significant untapped opportunity,” said Jeff Webster, group vice president of Renewable Products for Tyson Foods.

The chews’ segment of the U.S. pet treat market is a $1.2 billion business growing at a rate of 8 percent a year, he said. “Our products are 100 percent natural and are proudly made in America’s heartland using a unique approach based on our in-depth protein knowledge,” he said.

True Chews products are being distributed nationally to pet specialty stores and other retail outlets. Merchandising assistance, such as product display shelving, aisle banners and other point of sale material, is available to retailers. 

The company has also developed the website which launches in early March to help communicate product and promotional information to retailers and consumers. While company officials said they are aware that people are still worried about the economy and unemployment, they said retail demand is good, a sign of growing consumer confidence.

Tyson’s Independence plant reopened Jan. 18 after being closed since early 2006. The size of the workforce is expected to grow to more than 100 within the next couple of years. <HOME>