Vindija d.d. proudly marked four decades of successful goat farming and strong partnerships with goat milk producers. A ceremonial gathering at the company's headquarters brought together partners, employees, and subcontractors to commemorate this significant milestone. The event was attended by Nenad Klepač, President of the Management Board of Vindija, and Krunoslav Ladić, Coordinator of the Milk Purchase Sector, alongside team members from the Milk Purchase Sector and TSH Blagodar. In recognition of outstanding contributions, awards were presented to the 10 most successful producers who delivered over 100,000 liters of premium-quality goat milk during 2024. This acknowledgment highlights the pivotal role subcontractors play in Vindija's continued growth and success.
„Four decades of goat farming at Vindija stand as a testament to the vision and dedication of our employees and the invaluable contributions of our subcontractor producers. As a leader in the food industry, we are deeply committed to bolstering domestic production by increasing goat milk procurement, enhancing partnerships with producers, and jointly advocating for projects essential to the sustainability and growth of this sector. By adopting the latest technologies, improving self-sufficiency, and raising environmental standards, we are optimistic about the future. We firmly believe that knowledge, innovation, and collaboration are the keys to ensuring long-term resilience and competitiveness. Vindija will continue to invest in goat farming, further strengthening this vital segment of Croatian dairy production and maintaining its position as a leader in delivering the highest-quality food solutions," said Nenad Klepač, President of the Management Board of Vindija.
The story of goat farming at Vindija began in 1984, inspired by the visionary decision of its General Director at the time - Dragutin Drk, who identified the potential for goat production in Varaždin and Međimurje counties. Vindija started modestly, collaborating with just three producers and a herd of 60 Alpine goats. Today, the company partners with numerous producers across Varaždin, Međimurje, Koprivnica-Križevci, and Bjelovar-Bilogora counties, reflecting decades of sustained growth and success.
To celebrate this milestone, awards were presented to 10 producers who delivered over 100,000 liters of premium-quality goat milk in 2024. The recipients of this recognition include: Matija Poljan (Turčin), Valentino Cmrk (Breznički Hum), Tomislav Zlatar (Mali Bukovec), Ervin Živko (Trnovec Bartolovečki), Denis Petermanec (Mursko Središće), OPG Matija Balaž (Mursko Središće), Luka Vukoić, OPG Alpina Agro (Orehovec), Damir Matijašec (Ludbreg), Domagoj Zlatar, obrt Zlatni kompas (Gola), Marina Marciuš - Eko Farma Marciuš (Nedelišće).
"Sustainable and high-quality goat milk production is the result of the unwavering dedication of our subcontractors and the professional support provided by employees in the Milk Purchase Sector. They oversee essential tasks, including organizing milk collection, quality control, professional support for producers, and providing feed and raw materials. This comprehensive approach ensures excellence in every stage of production. I am particularly proud that Vindija's goat milk products have gained recognition not only in Croatia but also internationally. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and quality contributions of everyone involved,” said Krunoslav Ladić, Coordinator of the Milk Purchase Sector at Vindija.
Vindija commands an impressive 90% share of the total purchased quantities of goat milk in Croatia, affirming its leadership in the sector. The company's goat milk products have garnered international recognition and accolades at prestigious global competitions. Standout products include: Riserva Caprodur, extra hard goat cheese (Superior Taste Award, Brussels), 'z bregov goat milk (a DLG silver medal, Germany; and Champion at AGRA, Gornja Radgona), Caprodur hard goat cheese (a DLG silver medal, Germany; bronze medal at the World Cheese Awards, Portugal; AGRA, a grand gold medal at Gornja Radgona).
Vindija plays an active role in advocating for projects vital to the development of goat farming in Croatia. Thanks to these efforts, the Ministry of Agriculture has included goat farming in the Program for the Development of the Dairy Sector Until 2030. Recognizing the growing interest among producers, Vindija provides continuous support for programs aimed at renewing and enhancing production capacities. By fostering innovation and development, the company strengthens this vital branch of dairy farming. Vindija’s future commitments include increasing goat milk purchase, deepening partnerships with producers, and continuing to advocate for projects essential to the sector’s long-term resilience.