Our
Story

Combining Tradition and Innovation in Pet Wellness

From our start to our current success, each chapter of our history has been a step toward creating lasting impact and sustainable growth

1950

1955

22 year old German immigrant Rolf C Hagen embarks on his journey to Canada, and just after arriving goes to city hall and registers his company. He begins importing pet products from Germany, and sourcing bird seeds in the vast Canadian prairies and exporting them back to Germany.

1959

The company marks a significant milestone by opening its first of many office locations, beginning in Germany, the birthplace of its journey and legacy.

Dieter Hagen joins his brother in Montreal and becomes the company’s Head of Sales.

1960

1963

Rolf’s brother, Horst completes the family leadership and joins him in Canada, taking on the role of Head of Purchasing.

1970

1974

Manufacturing and distribution hub Hagen Industries begin producing wire cages and glass aquariums.

Credit: Bailey Abrahams

Operations in North America expand with the acquisition of USA aquatic filter company Biozonic and the opening of a warehouse and sales office outside of Boston

1975

Fluval breaks out onto the aquatic scene by introducing the world’s first 3 stage filter with synchronous motor technology – a landmark breakthrough still applied in the industry today

1980

1982

Hagen Group’s footprint in Europe grows with opening of the UK office

1987

First versions of HARI Tropican formulas, formulated by Mark Hagen, who was completing his Master's degree in Avian Nutrition.

1988

Nutrience launches in the Canadian market, providing dogs and cats with complete and balanced diets made from locally sourced ingredients

1989

Hagen Group opens its office in France.

1990

1996

Rolf C Hagen receives The First Cross of the Federal Order of Merit from Germany .

1999

Rolf is inducted into the American Pet Products Association Hall of Fame, the highest honour that can be bestowed upon an individual in the pet industry.

Catit launches, serving Kings & Queens and treating all cats as the royals they are.

2000

2000

Exo Terra launches, committed to advancing the well-being of reptiles and amphibians by providing innovative, nature-inspired habitat solutions.

2002

The company extends its global reach into the Southeast Asian market with the establishment of a warehouse and office in Malaysia, sourcing many key products lines in Malaysia.

2004

The next generation of leadership takes the reins, with Rolf Hagen Jr. at the helm, steering the company into its future together with his two brothers, Tom and Mark.

2005

Rolf C Hagen is awarded The Highest Order of Merit from the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, the highest honour that Germany can bestow upon a civilian.

The Hagen Family Foundation is established, supporting initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty, advancing education, and fostering a range of philanthropic endeavors, including artistic, social, and conservation efforts.

2006

The new head office in Baie- D’Urfe opens its doors, paving the way for future growth and innovation.

2010

2011

Founder Rolf C Hagen passes away, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

2015

Zeus & Zoe brand of dog toys and treats makes its debut

The company strengthens its international presence by entering the South American market with the launch of a warehouse and office in Argentina.

2020

2024

Catit proudly marks 25 years of innovation and excellence as a trusted brand.

Hagen Industries marks 50 years of developing solutions in pet and hobby animal nutrition, and aquarium 360-degree care , still driven by the same family values that have guided it from the start.

Credit: Baily Abrahams

2025

With 70 years of dedication and growth, Hagen Group is proud to be the world’s largest privately-owned multinational manufacturer and distributor of pet products.