Kormotech's 2024 Achievements: Launching a New Brand, Gaining Authorized Economic Operator, and Joining the Global TOP-50 Pet Food Producers

«Back at the end of 2017, entering the global TOP-50 felt like an unattainable dream. Now, for the sixth consecutive year, we find ourselves among the TOP-21 most dynamic companies in the pet food sector. This reflects our ongoing growth and the increasing demand for our products in the market. Despite the challenges posed by the war, our international partners are eager not only to sell our brand but also to deepen their collaboration with Kormotech», — remarked Rostyslav Vovk, CEO and co-owner of Kormotech.

During the summer and early fall of the previous year, Kormotech, as Ukraine’s leading producer of pet food, successfully ventured into the markets of South Korea, Egypt, and Malaysia. «South Korea’s pet food sector ranks third in East Asia, following China and Japan», — noted Eduard Babenko, Head of Strategic Business Area for Ukraine, Moldova, and Southeast Asia at Kormotech. — In terms of revenue, it’s three times larger than Ukraine. The market is evenly split between sales of specialized food for cats and dogs, but what sets South Korea apart is that 67% of pet food sales occur online, the highest proportion in the world according to Euromonitor. Therefore, a major challenge in working with South Korea is acquiring expertise in developing online sales for the premium and super premium segments».

In early November, Kormotech was granted the status of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) — a status held by only a handful of companies in Ukraine. This AEO designation equips Ukraine's largest pet food producer with priority customs clearance, and expediting import and export operations. «Achieving Authorized Economic Operator status is a significant advancement for Kormotech, enhancing our export-import capabilities. We can now offer our customers and partners improved speed, flexibility, and quality of service, which will bolster our competitiveness in Ukraine and Central and Eastern Europe», — explained Oleg Kravets, head of Kormotech's export services.

At the beginning of November, the company secured a €40 million loan from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to support its export growth and geographical diversification plans, tied to constructing a new plant in Lithuania. The total investment for this project is estimated at €63 million.

By the end of November, Kormotech launched its new brand, Delickcious, introducing wet treats for dogs and cats in the premium-plus nutrition segment. This line features unique textures and formats, including soups, drinks, and creamy snacks. The drinks promote optimal hydration, while the nutrient-rich soups, packed with zinc, iron, and vitamin D3, support overall health and enhance the active lives of pets. «Delickcious is our way of expressing love for pets, connecting with them through flavors and textures. Just as we indulge in delicious meals after a long day, we want every pet owner to spoil their furry friends with high-quality, appetizing treats», — said Oksana Taras, head of the Delickcious brand, — Our goal isn’t to change the fundamental diet of cats and dogs but to enrich it. We aim to add variety to their lives by creating moments of joy that pet parents can share with their companions».

In 2024, Kormotech also:

Joined the «National Cashback» program, allowing customers to receive cashback on products made in Ukraine, including brands like «Optimeal», «Club 4 Paws», «Meow!» and «Haw!».

Partnered with the Lviv City Council to support the reconstruction of Lviv, signing a Memorandum to kick off the first stages of rebuilding a structure at 46 Konovaltsia Street, which was damaged during a missile attack in September. The attack affected 189 buildings, resulting in more than 1 billion hryvnias in damages to the city.

Became one of 20 large companies to sign the «Principles of Veteran-Friendly Business» Memorandum.