Lyka Wellness has grown astronomically since opening its advanced manufacturing site in Dandenong South in December 2023.
Initially running a single shift producing eight batches a day, the facility now operates three shifts pumping out 45 batches a day. “It’s been an incredible journey, very rewarding, but challenging as well” says Lee Williams, Lyka’s Manufacturing Director, Victoria.
The company was founded in 2018 by Anna Podolsky and vet Dr Matthew Muir. Lyka Wellness was born after Anna went on a mission to improve her dog Lyka’s health through home-cooked meals. The results spoke for themselves, Lyka had more energy, a healthier coat and less tooth decay. This sparked a business idea.
Today, Lyka delivers vet-formulated, high-quality whole food meal plans tailored to each dog’s needs, along with supplements and treats. With over 70 million meals delivered across Australia, it is safe to say the pet food company is onto something. The Dandenong South site produces kangaroo, beef and chicken recipes, while the NSW pack, as Lyka refer to their staff, handles lamb, fish and turkey.
When the Business Development and Investment team first shared a story on Lyka in 2023, they spoke of hoping to employ 100 staff by 2025. Today, the team proudly can say the Dandenong South site employs more than 100 staff from diverse backgrounds. “We love being in Dandenong South” says Lee. “The fact that we have access to such amazing diversity is absolutely brilliant. I love the diversity in the team because you get to work with people from different backgrounds from countries around the world that you have not had the opportunity to meet and work with before”.
Lyka’s culture is dog-centric, with core values like “leading the pack” (having an innovative mindset) and “picking up the poo” (operating with integrity and being accountable). Even the office rooms are named after employees’ dogs.
“There’s a lot of smiles, a lot of laughs, a lot of collaboration working together to overcome our challenges, but it is a real fun and happy business to work for” says Lee.
Lyka also supports dog rescue organisations, donating tens of thousands of meals to Victorian-based groups like Forever Friends Animal Rescue, Victorian Dog Rescue and Resource Group Inc, Greyt Greys Rescue and local organisation the Australian Animal Protection Society (AAPS). “As a rescue organisation, we rely heavily on the generosity of community and business donations to help us care for the animals before they find their forever home", AAPS CEO Megan Benton says. “We often find ourselves caring for over 200 animals each month until they find their new home. Lyka’s contribution of pet food has set many tails wagging in our shelter and we are grateful for that”.
Despite the challenges of its rapid expansion, Lyka continues to grow and thrive. “We’re currently installing a second production line” says Lee. “There’s a lot happening at Dandenong South, and I’m very excited about the future”.
Learn more
Visit Lyka online or at 32 Crompton Way, Dandenong South
