The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songulashvili, hosted Michael Durach, Owner of the German food producer “Develey”, and Mikheil Svimonishvili, Owner of “Marneuli Food Factory”.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the progress of a new production facility being developed at “Marneuli Food Factory” as part of the cooperation between “Develey” and “Marneuli Food Factory”, while highlighting the companies’ plans for the future. The facility, covering approximately 10,000 square meters, will feature six modern technological production lines. The facility is scheduled to become fully operational in March, while production of the first products is expected to launch in October.

Once the new production facility is operational, “Marneuli Food Factory’s” product range will expand by 30–40 new products, including mayonnaise and various types of sauces, intended for the domestic market as well as for export. The project also envisages the development of local raw-material production and the adoption of modern technologies.

“You have extensive experience. I believe this is precisely what Georgia needs today: knowledge, technological expertise, and international connections. One of our key priorities is to strengthen food production in the country and make the most effective use of local resources. In this regard, it is essential to develop both the industry and the supply chain and provide the necessary support. Georgia offers a favorable business environment and opportunities for access to international markets. Our goal is not only to strengthen local capabilities but also to create conditions that will enable companies to export products made in Georgia to international markets”, - said David Songulashvili.

According to Michael Durach, Georgia has significant agricultural potential and a stable, predictable business environment, which are among the key factors underpinning the company’s decision to invest in the country: “Georgia is a country with significant agricultural potential. Our idea was to combine investment with access to the entire supply chain from the field, including product quality control, all the way through to production. This is only the beginning. We wish to make Georgia the starting point and a regional hub for our operations, enabling us to export products from here to other countries as well. By combining Georgia’s local raw-material base with our technological expertise, we can further develop and strengthen the country’s existing capabilities. A stable and predictable environment is also very important to us, and we see that in Georgia. We are pleased to feel the support we are receiving in the country and are confident that our operations will continue to grow”.

“Marneuli Food Factory” was established in 2007 and is currently one of the major food-processing companies in Georgia. The factory produces more than 50 types of products, including tomato paste, tkemali, adjika, marinades, sauces, jams, and preserves. Using locally sourced raw materials is a key priority for the company, which currently procures raw materials from more than 150 Georgian farmers. Its products are sold on the Georgian market and exported to international markets, including countries in Europe and the United States.

“Develey” is a German family-owned company founded in 1845 and is now an international producer of sauces, mustard, and other food products. The company exports its products to more than 65 countries worldwide. One of “Develey’s” key partners is McDonald’s, which the company has supplied with various sauces, ketchup, and mustard since 1971.