Meat snack manufacturer, Link Foods APAC, has acquired Kooee! Snack Foods, as it looks to expand its premium portfolio across the Asia Pacific region. Kooee! makes high-protein, gluten-free snacks from 100 per cent grass-fed beef and natural ingredients.
Link Foods APAC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Link Snacks Inc – produce protein-rich meat snacks.
Link Foods APAC managing director, Shannon O’Connell, said the meat snacks segment has seen double-digit growth in recent years, driven by demand for high-protein, clean-label, and better-for-you snacks.
“Kooee! has built a brand that perfectly aligns with the way consumers are choosing to snack today – natural, high in protein, and made with integrity. Its commitment to quality and clean ingredients is unmatched, and we see this as a powerful addition to our growing portfolio in APAC.
“This acquisition allows us to bring both our global and local scale and operational strength to a proudly homegrown brand, while continuing to support its unique voice, values, and connection with consumers,” O’Connell said.
Kooee! was founded in northwest Tasmania by Shaun Malligan. Its range of beef jerky and meat sticks uses 100 per cent grass fed beef and free-range pork, natural, gluten-free, and clean ingredients.
Kooee! will be integrated into Link Foods’ operations over the coming months, unlocking access to expanded manufacturing capacity, enhanced distribution, and world-class R&D capabilities.
Kooee! founder Shaun Malligan will remain closely involved post-acquisition, taking on an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition and maintain momentum through the next phase of growth.
Malligan said the brand started from a simple idea to make snacks he’d be proud to share with family.
“To see how far we’ve come, and now to join forces with the global leader in meat snacks, is incredibly exciting. I couldn’t think of a better home for Kooee! than Link Foods.
“They understand our vision and share our passion for quality and innovation. I’m looking forward to staying involved as an advisor during this next phase, ensuring we keep building on the momentum we've created and continue delivering exceptional snacks for our loyal customers,” Malligan said.
Kooee! will retain its brand identity and it will be business as usual for retail and distribution partners.
