During the official visit, they discussed the further improvement of competitiveness and sustainable development of the local food industry and Vindija, which employs more than 4,200 people and operates on numerous foreign markets as one of the most important Croatian exporters.

“This visit gave me the opportunity to learn more about the business philosophy, innovative approach and high standards of Vindija, our giant in the food industry. Impressive facilities, investment in the latest technologies and a modern approach to traditional values ​​are a guarantee of the quality of products recognised by Croatian and neighbouring countries’ consumers, who place Vindija at the very top of food producers in Europe. The Government of the Republic of Croatia recognises and supports the innovative and bold business strides that Vindija is making, and will continue to be a good partner in this industry of great potential," said Damir Habijan, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development.

As part of the working meeting, in addition to a more detailed introduction to Vindija's activities and development plans, special emphasis was placed on improving mutual cooperation and support for the food industry in Croatia. At the same time, the key challenges and opportunities the company faces were presented.

"Cost distortions, as well as new requirements that will result from regulations regarding decarbonisation and the sustainability of industrial production, will significantly affect the competitiveness of production and the retention of employees and more than 1,000 subcontractors of the Group. As a Group, we need support and funds intended for such improvements, but as a large company we are often excluded due to the conditions for applying for funds," said Nenad Klepač, president of the Vindija Management Board.

The Vindija Group, as one of the most important business and production systems in Varaždin and Varaždin County, is particularly focused on stimulating the local economy through a branched system of subcontractors and by developing new production facilities in that area. Commenting on the importance of the company, Varaždin Prefect Anđelo Stričak pointed out: "I am glad that Minister Habijan officially visited Varaždin County for the second time in a month, which only shows how much he cares about everything that is being done here. After signing the bale disposal contract and following an exceptionally good meeting with businessmen and entrepreneurs, the Minister also visited the business system of Vindija, the largest food company in Croatia, which today is synonymous both nationally and regionally with quality, continuity and a decades-long tradition, and in addition it constantly works to preserve local agricultural and food production.”

During the official visit, the Minister of Economy was introduced, among other things, to the production process of Vindija’s range of milk and dairy products, for which last year the Vindija Group was awarded a National Quality System certificate by the Ministry of Agriculture called “Proven Quality Croatia”. The above label is found on 62 products from Vindija’s range of milk and dairy products, making the Varaždin food giant the first domestic company to be awarded this certification of quality, ecological acceptability, and 100% Croatian origin for milk and dairy products. This recognition of quality ensued after Koka d.d., the leading poultry company in Croatia that operates as part of Vindija, received the same certificate at the beginning of 2023.

"We welcome the visit of the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, which gives us faith that with him at the helm, we will be able to achieve even better cooperation with the competent ministry. We believe that the minister, himself a resident of Varaždin, recognises the Group's efforts towards continuous development and the aspiration to maintain its position as market leader. We are also open to stronger cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture on certain projects of importance for Koka, which are under the competence of both these ministries. Our goal is to increase energy efficiency through EU funds, and the ministries are our important partners in this," concluded Stjepan Sabljak, president of the Koka Management Board.