Project Description
A modernized former Soviet factory in Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan, UKPF is an established regional poultry leader in Kazakhstan (14% of domestic production, 6% market share) serving the remote though populated northeast market, as well as Almaty and Astana and marginal export sales to Kyrgyzstan. Currently, UKPF is the sole chilled chicken meat producer in Kazakhstan. With its new processing operation and improved technical operations, UKPF can leverage on its regional strength to gain market share in other regions, and expand fresh poultry production.
UKPF’s strategy is to transition the bulk of its sales from frozen whole birds to chilled products to capture higher margins, provide an alternative to frozen import options, and secure a stronger foothold in Almaty. Chilled product sales will be achieved through locating UKPF-branded counters and refrigerators in key retail spots in Almaty, Astana, Pavlodar and Ust-Kamenogorsk for the majority of sales. Supporting this effort is an already-embarked upon modernization program and improvements in the distribution system to build close relationships with leading supermarkets.
The IFC Project will help UKPF (i) improve the operation’s bio-security to reduce the risk of disease; (ii) accelerate the retailing of the branded chilled production; and (iii) reduce feed costs. Advisory services will assist the Company with corporate governance, food safety and energy efficiency.