JAB Said to Weigh IPO for Pet-Care Unit as Soon as This Year (1)

JAB is weighing an initial public offering of its pet-care portfolio amid booming demand for animal health-care services, according to people familiar with the matter.

The Luxembourg-based conglomerate is exploring options for the business, which it built through the 2019 acquisitions of Compassion-First Pet Hospitals and National Veterinary Associates, the people said. It could seek a U.S. listing later this year or in early 2022, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing confidential information.

Deliberations are ongoing and JAB could also seek an alternative to an IPO, according to the people. A representative for JAB declined to comment. ...