Pickle Production Expansion in Gori with a 400,000 GEL Investment
"King of Pickles," a Georgian pickle producer based in the village of Zerduleti, Gori municipality, is set to inaugurate a new facility to meet rising demand. The company's founder, Jondo Tsertsvadze, shared with "Business Partner" the plans for this significant expansion.
The increase in production capacity is a direct response to growing market demand. Currently, "King of Pickles" produces around 20,000 units per season, a figure that is expected to surge to approximately 200,000 bottles with the new enterprise's operation. The existing small-scale operation in Zerduleti will be complemented by the new site, which spans 200 sq.m. The company is awaiting a construction permit and anticipates beginning work by the end of April, aiming for completion within 2-3 months. The project commands an investment of 400,000 GEL.
At present, the lineup includes five varieties of pickles: cucumber, tomato, garlic stem, pepper, and ginger. With the expansion, five more products will join the roster, including traditional Georgian pickles, various fruit pickles, cauliflower, chopped cabbage, and an assortment mix. "King of Pickles" sources its raw materials from local farmers and currently distributes products online and through select agricultural stores.
Looking ahead to this year's strategy, Tsertsvadze reveals plans to penetrate the local retail market and expand into Europe, with discussions already underway with a Slovak partner.
Tsertsvadze recalls the company's origins, crediting a 12,000 GEL grant from USAID's idea competition for kickstarting the business. The introduction of pickled garlic stems—a unique product idea—garnered significant interest and set "King of Pickles" apart in the market.
Funding for the expansion includes a 100,000 GEL contribution from USAID and a 200,000 GEL investment from a Slovak partner, with the balance covered by the company's own capital.
Established in the summer of 2023, "King of Pickles" currently employs five people. The expansion will not only enhance production but also create 38 new jobs in the border village, directly employing 30 individuals in the new facility.