Central Garden & Pet Company (CENT) Proxy Filing summary

Executive summary

• Annual Meeting scheduled for February 11, 2026, to be held virtually; record date is December 15, 2025.

• Shareholders will vote on electing nine directors, ratifying Deloitte & Touche LLP as auditor, and an advisory say-on-pay vote for executive compensation.

• Proxy materials are distributed primarily via the Internet to reduce costs and environmental impact; printed copies available upon request.

• Only holders of Common Stock and Class B Stock may vote; Class A Common Stock holders may attend but not vote.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Proposals include election of nine directors, ratification of Deloitte & Touche LLP as auditor for FY ending September 26, 2026, and an advisory vote on executive compensation.

• Board recommends voting FOR all proposals.

• Shareholders may submit proposals for the 2027 annual meeting by August 24, 2026.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of a majority of independent directors as per NASDAQ standards.

• Chairman and CEO roles are separated; lead independent director position in place.

• Board diversity: 22% female, 11% Asian, average age 65.

• Committees: Audit, Compensation, Investment, Executive, and Talent, Capabilities & Succession.

• No nominating committee; full Board fulfills this function.