Unilever considering purchase of raw materials in Ukraine
Unilever Company, one of the largest foodstuff and daily consumer goods producers in the world, is considering purchasing raw materials in Ukraine to produce foodstuffs.
"We're considering the purchase of raw materials in Ukraine – farming products, in particular, grain, tomatoes and onions," Vice President for supplies of Unilever RUB (Russia, Ukraine, Belarus) Ad Van Oers told Interfax-Ukraine.
He said that at present, talks with possible suppliers are being held and farms that can produce products of certain quality are being selected.
"Ukraine is traditionally strong in agriculture. Speaking about tomatoes, I want to say that their supply is higher than in Russia. In addition, Ukraine has more favorable climate for crop cultivation than some of its neighbors," he said.
He added that raw materials from Ukraine could be supplied to Russian factories and some European countries.
He did not disclose when the company could start buying products in Ukraine, as the project is being studied: products are being tested. He said that Unilever is interested in settling the issue as soon as possible. He said that initially the company would buy products in small consignments, although they could be expanded if the quality and price suit the company. The company plans to work with Ukrainian farms through its suppliers.
Oers also said that the company is considering various options for business development in Ukraine.
"We're continually looking at this, but we don't have any concrete plans," he said.