The parent company behind McVitie’s, GODIVA and Ülker has entered a new market in Central Asia with the launch of a commercial enterprise and distribution centre in Uzbekistan.
For London-headquartered snacking giant, pladis, the expansion marks the next step in its strategy to scale its global presence and provide more consumers with its well-loved products.
The newly established distribution hub in the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, will enable pladis to bring its Ülker brand to millions of consumers across the country, reaching more than 30,000 sales points through regional dealerships in 12 different cities.
pladis’ plans to accelerate its growth by delivering 105 different Ülker products to these sales points with regular weekly visits during the first year.
The move builds on pladis’ already strong presence in Central Asia, underpinned by more than 25 years of successful chocolate and biscuit production through its Ülker brand in Kazakhstan.
Özgür Kölükfakı, managing director of pladis Türkiye and Central Asia, commented: “As one of Central Asia’s most dynamic and fastest-growing markets, with a population nearing 38 million, Uzbekistan presents a significant opportunity to strengthen our presence in the region and expand the reach of our Ülker brand. Our market entry in Uzbekistan allows us to bring our products to millions of consumers, while deepening our long-term commitment to the region through strong local partnerships and meaningful economic contribution.”
Founded in 2016, pladis operates 27 bakeries and factories in 11 countries and employs 16,000 people. Its brands are sold in more than 110 countries worldwide.
