May 21, 2008

Thai food processor plans expansion in Poland
 

Thai food processor S. Khonkaen Food Industry (SKFI) is planning to set up a facility in Poland to produce Thai-style sausages and shredded pork products.

The move is an effort to expand sales in the EU and the company is ready to invest THB 50 million (US$1.5 million) if sales in the region are sufficient to support the project, according to CEO Charoen Rujiirasopon. 

Last year, SKFI reached an agreement with leading Polish food processor Paruzel to produce a range of its products for distribution within the EU and for exports, with Paruzel manufacturing the products and SKFI providing quality inspection and marketing services, said Rujiirasopon.

Rujiirasopon said initial production would be 50 tonnes per month and SKFI expects sales of about THB 3.5 million (US$109,106) over the first two years.

SKIF initially exports fish balls and snacks under the Tae Jiew brand to Asian supermarkets, but Foot-and-Mouth Disease deterred the company from exporting meat products to the EU.