12/12/2024
A new potato storage facility with a 10.000-ton capacity storage unit has been opened in Zhytomyr Region. The project was implemented by Adelaide Farm Enterprise, a private farmstead, with the support of Ukreximbank through the Affordable Loans 5-7-9% programme using an unfunded portfolio risk-sharing instrument provided by the EBRD. The construction cost amounted to UAH 88 million.
Construction of the 5.305 sq. m. potato storage facility commenced on 1 May 2024. With financial support from Ukreximbank, the farming enterprise completed the construction program within seven months. The facility features a unit capable of processing 9.000 tons of potatoes through advanced peeling and vacuuming techniques.
“Adelaide Farm successfully adapted its production plan to the realities of wartime, achieving its goals with the support of a loan from Ukreximbank under the government’s Affordable Loans 5-7-9% programme. Despite the warchallenges, the company honoured all its commitments to suppliers and customers while preserving its most valuable asset — the team. Today, the company employs 146 permanent staff members,” said Olesya Tochytska, co-owner of Adelaide Farm and head of the “Lesyni Dzherela” organisation.
“During the full-scale invasion and occupation of Kherson region, most of our businesses were forced to move to other regions. The relocation process was the only way for many businesses to preserve their assets, jobs, and the possibility of further development. Over the past few years, state-owned Ukreximbank has consistently provided credit support to the farming sector under various programmes, including EBRD-targeted programmes with a grant component. And today we are pleased that Adelaide Farm despite all the challenges successfully develops its business in Zhytomyr region,” said Asya Yefremova, acting manager of Ukreximbank's Kherson branch.
“Ukreximbank has always been and remains a reliable partner of Ukrainian farmers. 25 years of partnership with Adelaide Farm is a testament to our unwavering commitment to support domestic producers. The opening of the potato storage facility is an investment in the future of Ukraine and a step towards ensuring the country's food security,” commented Semen Puskay, Director of the Medium business, municipalities, and utilities department of Ukreximbank.
For reference.
Adelaide Farm was founded by Serhiy and Olena Rybalko on 25 August 1992 in Chulakivka, Skadovsk district, Kherson region. The farm has two divisions: the Kherson division, which is currently under occupation, and the Zhytomyr branch.
Adelaide Farm supplies seed potatoes to small and medium-sized agricultural producers, table potatoes to public sector organisations, and industrial potatoes for processing into chips (under the Lay's and Chipsters brands) as well as for peeling and vacuum packaging (for Ovocheva Skarbnitsa LLC and Puzata Khata TM). The farm also exports potatoes to Azerbaijan.
