ZhL (formerly CJSC Zhytomyrski Lasoschi), one of the largest confectionery producers in Ukraine, plans in 2013 to invest around EUR 15 million in production expansion by 10%.

"We plan next year to increase output by 10% in terms of weight," ZhL Deputy Director for Marketing Oksana Shybetska told Interfax-Ukraine in Kyiv on Wednesday.

According to her, about EUR 5 million will be invested in equipment. In particular, the company has bought a new sweets production line of 600 tonnes per month, which is to be installed next year. In addition, the company plans to bring the capacity of two lines acquired in 2012 to the maximum production level.

About EUR 10 million will be used to improve the technology of sales, namely work with retail chains, strengthen the sales structure, expand sales staff, create merchandising and promotional services, etc.

In addition, the factory plans next year to increase the share of exports in total sales from 36% to 42%.

In order to expand the geography of exports, the company management signed an agreement with New Zealand and is in talks with China and African countries.