“The Russian market is very important for us because the innovation level in the local food industry is so high,“ says Niels Lerche Petersen, Regional Vice President Europe, on the occassion of Chr. Hansen Russia’s 10^th anniversary.

“The close interaction between our specialists and the food producers has given birth to many new exciting products within a variety of categories.

Together we have improved the knowledge level in the industry over the years, and I am proud to say that Chr. Hansen is known by almost every Russian food producer - and recognized as a leader in innovation and technology,“ he elaborates.

Growth driver

Cultures and enzymes for the dairy industry have been and are still a strong growth driver for Chr. Hansen Russia. In addition ingredient solutions for the meat industry and natural colors are now in a very positive momentum.

A solid part of a 135-year-old success – geared for the future

The Russian affiliate of the 135-year-old global ingredients company has developed rapidly during the last decade. Starting out with only one man, the staff has grown to 40, who serve the Russian dairy, food & beverage and meat & prepared foods industries in a close working partnership with their customers.

At the most recent customer seminar in Moscow gathering 80 food companies, CH’s image as a serious, highly esteemed ingredients supplier was underlined by the participation of an official representative of the Russian Ministry of Health/Institute of nutrition.

“We experienced a genuine interest in our company from all market players as a result of our 10 years of activity in Russia. The seminar was a great event to further strengthen our position on the Russian market,“ concludes Niels Lerche Petersen.

Eastern Europe – a focus area

It is the overall strategy of Chr. Hansen to have a strong local presence and a close customer contact on the individual markets, not least in Eastern Europe.

Only in November Chr. Hansen established its own legal entity in Romania as part of an aggressive strategy for sales growth in the region.

Apart from that Chr. Hansen has own entities in Poland, the Czech Republic and Ukraine.