A new Georgian dried fruit brand, Kesi, has launched production in the village of Medjvriskhevi, Gori Municipality, close to the occupation line. The project was developed by PM Group, which invested more than GEL 1 million in the new processing facility, EastFruit reports, citing Business Georgia.
Commercial sales are expected to begin in September.
The company’s product portfolio includes dried fruit, chocolate-coated dried fruit, prunes and fruit leather, with freeze-dried fruit due to be added to the range shortly.
According to PM Group founder and director David Mechiauri, the products will be made entirely from natural ingredients, without added sugar or preservatives. To extend shelf life while maintaining product quality, the company uses nitrogen-flushed packaging.
Export markets are the initial priority
During the first stage of development, PM Group plans to focus primarily on international markets. The company is already negotiating with potential partners in the United States, Canada, Kazakhstan and Russia.
Kesi products will also be available through Georgian retail chains. Local distributors have reportedly already expressed interest in adding the new brand to their portfolios.
Preparation for the launch took approximately one year. Mechiauri said the extended development period was necessary to test each product thoroughly before introducing it to consumers.
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Georgian fruit sourced from local farmers
The processing facility purchases most of its raw materials from farmers in the Gori region, including communities situated near the conflict zone.
When specific fruits are unavailable locally, the company sources them from other parts of Georgia. However, PM Group emphasises that it uses exclusively Georgian-grown raw materials.
The factory is equipped with modern processing technology, including one of only two freeze-drying units currently operating in Georgia. This equipment will allow Kesi to expand its range and enter the growing freeze-dried fruit segment.
Company management estimates that an additional GEL 1 million will be required to further increase production capacity.
PM Group expands its own fruit production
Alongside fruit processing, PM Group is developing its own raw-material base. The company has already established a 30-hectare sour cherry orchard and plans to plant another 20 hectares next year.
The factory currently employs between 10 and 12 local residents. Once the facility reaches full production capacity, the workforce is expected to increase to approximately 30 employees.
The project could provide an important new market for Georgian fruit growers while creating additional employment opportunities in a region located close to the occupation line.
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