Competition heats up in Ukrainian chocolate sector

Although chocolate has long been the manufacturer's main focus - last year, it accounted for 70 per cent of total volume - AVK believes there is still room in the market for expansion and plans to increase production to 80 per cent of business by the end of 2007. AVK general director Anrey Dikunov said: "The high level of competition in the Ukrainian confectionery market requires companies with long term development intentions to focus by maximising their core business activities." ​​The company, which produces candies under the Shedevr, Frutta and Chewyland brands, is set to acquire new production facilities and increase investment in manufacturing equipment in order to meet its targets. Over $10 million will be poured into expanding and modernising the company's existing site in Dnepropetrovsk which currently produces 40 per cent of AVK's output. The new drive is in conjunction with the discontinuation of flagging brands. Within the last few years, 13 caramel production lines have been dismantled and replaced to maximise company chocolate sales. To celebrate its renewed focus on chocolate, AVK has relaunched its luxury boxed Assorti range with new formulation and packaging. In addition, a new range of chocolate pralines is expected to enter the marketplace in the coming months.