Our history

Ein Frimernereportage für das Unternehmen Reico in Oberostendorf, Bayer. In Zusammenarbeit mit MetaDesign. Artidirection Mairus Hanf

Origin and approach (1992) 

In 1992, Konrad Reiber founded Reico & Partner Vertriebs GmbH. Influenced by his close connection to nature and his many years of experience in the pet food industry, a clear approach was created from the very beginning: To support and improve the lives of humans, animals and plants in a natural way. 

The next step was a natural conclusion based on this position: a holistic approach. Business activities were not based on individual symptoms or short-term effects, but on long-term equilibrium. This thinking still shapes REiCO today. 

Early years and entrepreneurial flexibility (1994–1998) 

In the initial years, REiCO continued to develop dynamically. In addition to the core business, a second mainstay was created in the beverage trade. Growth and increasing demand necessitated spatial changes and ultimately led to a new building and the move to the current location. 

This phase was characterised by a pragmatic approach, adaptability and the willingness to break new ground in order to enable development. 

Testing times (2000) 

The year 2000 was a great challenge for the young company. The Europe-wide BSE crisis and the resulting government measures led to massive cuts. Within a short time, REiCO found itself in an existential situation that forced the company to rethink structures, securities and the future. 

This experience has had a lasting impact on the company. It clearly showed how important resilience, a sense of responsibility and long-term thinking are. 

Detours, responsibility and narrowly avoiding closure (2002) 

In order to cushion economic risks, the beverage trade was transferred to an independent company. This developed differently than expected and led to considerable financial burdens. REiCO was once again faced with an existential decision. 

This phase was characterised by a high level of personal responsibility, the attempt to take a wide variety of paths, and the realisation that not every idea is viable. In retrospect, it was an important learning process. 

Strategic new beginning (2003) 

In this situation, a landmark decision was made: REiCO realigned itself and deliberately opted for direct sales. This step meant a fundamental change in the business model – based on personal advice, proximity and long-term relationships. 

With limited resources, a lot of commitment and family support, the restructuring began. In addition to Germany, the company also started to sell into the Austrian market. Step by step, stability returned. 

REiCO as a second-generation family business (2004–2014) 

The next generations were involved in the company at an early stage. In 2004, daughters Manuela Kunz and Petra Reiber joined as partners. In 2014, they took over the management of the company, the second generation of the family to do so. 

With a clear distribution of tasks, professional competence and a common set of values, the foundation for a sustainable future was laid. 

Growth, professionalisation and Europe (2005–2018) 

With the new sales model, REiCO experienced continuous growth. Logistics, warehousing and administration were gradually expanded and professionalised. At the same time, additional European markets were opened up and REiCO’s international presence was expanded. 

Growth was always pursued with a sense of proportion – supported by stable structures, cooperative partnerships and a long-term direction. 

Recognition and market position (2012–2023) 

After years of establishing and growing the company, its development has been confirmed several times by independent parties. REiCO has received various awards for economic stability, sustainable growth and a value-based culture. 

Today, REiCO is one of the leading companies in direct sales for pet food and regularly receives awards for its development and value orientation. 

Today and the outlook for the future: Quality from our own manufacturing facilities (from 2022) 

Another milestone was reached with the establishment of the company’s own production brand, HEIMATGLÜCK. In the company’s own manufacturing facilities in the Allgäu, products are created that consistently live up to REiCO’s standards: close to nature, responsible and of high quality. 

The manufacturing facilities are managed by the next generation – a deliberate sign of continuity, further development and future viability.  

Further development of brand presence and orientation (from 2026) 

In 2026, REiCO further developed its brand presence in fundamental ways. The new presence was designed to be simple, focused and lively. In this context, the orientation has also been further developed without changing the company’s long-standing attitude. 

The focus was on making the corporate philosophy even more visible and consistently anchoring it in presentations and communication. The reorientation marked one of the most far-reaching development steps in the history of REiCO. It is a consistent continuation of the company’s development on the basis of established values.