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David Songulashvili Meets with the Owners of German Food Producer ‘’Develey’’ and ‘’Marneuli Food Factory’’
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, hosted Mr Michael Durach, Owner of the German food producer ‘’Develey’’, and Mr Mikheil Svimonishvili, Owner of Marneuli Food Factory.
The parties focused on the progress of the new production facility being established at Marneuli Food Factory through cooperation between Develey and Marneuli Food Factory, as well as the companies’ future development plans.
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, with the first production expected to launch in October.
Once the new production facility is operational, the 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 aims to develop local raw material production and adopt 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 further strengthen domestic food production and maximize the efficient use of local resources. In this regard, it is essential to develop both the food processing industry and the supply chain, while ensuring the necessary support at every stage. Moreover, 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 Mr David Songhulashvili.
According to Michael Durach, owner of Develey, Georgia’s significant agricultural potential and stable, predictable business environment were among the key factors that influenced the company’s decision to invest in the country.
“Georgia is a country with significant agricultural potential. Our goal was to combine investment with access to the entire supply chain, from agricultural production in the field and product quality control to the final stage of processing and 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,” said Mr Durach.
‘’Marneuli Food Factory” was established in 2007 and has since grown into one of Georgia’s leading food-processing companies.
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. The company supplies the Georgian market and exports its products to international markets, including 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.