Pirot-based "Mlekara" to be put in operation again in autumn – procurement of equipment is in progress

The representatives of "Eko-Teman Group", the new owner of Pirot-based "Mlekara" (Dairy), have spoken to about 200 milk manufacturers in the Pirot region and announced final commencement of production in September.

The CEO of "Eko-Teman Group", Predrag Nikolić, said that overhaul of equipment and procurement of new motor pool and equipment for laboratories were underway, and that the investments amounted to few millions of euros.

- We plan to export 80% of production of white cheese and kachkaval to the markets of European Union and Russia, while the remaining 20% of production will be intended for local market – said Nikolić.

The dairy has been closed for nine years and, after two unsuccessful privatizations, it has finally got the new owner who was born in Serbia, but now lives and works in Germany.

Local self-government and Pirot’s administrative region have backed "Eko Teman Group" in the production revival process.

The Mayor of Pirot, Vladan Vasić, said that the revitalization of "Mlekara" would be of great importance to the production of Pirot’s kachkaval whose protection of geographic origin is close to end.

- The chance of the region lies in agriculture. We expect about 100 workers to be hired, as well as large number of collaborators – said Vasić.

The expert associate of "Eko Teman Group", Goran Popović, announced forming of purchase centers, equipping of collaborators with milking systems, opening of agri-store where farmers will be able to buy seeds and fertilizers under favorable terms.

- We plan to reactivate goat and sheep farm "Bele vode" on Stara Planina mountain next year, which will be supplying the manufacturers with the breeding material – said Popović.