A new recipe of success for Slovenia’s food and beverages industry: to be innovative and niche-focused with unique, top-quality products aimed at global markets. Perhaps the most typical example of this new paradigm is ice cream producer Incom, a winner of numerous international innovation and quality awards. The fast-growing company sells its products all over the world, from Europe to the USA, Australia, and Vietnam. Incom puts strong emphasis on R&D and the automation of its production processes and logistics.

An example of new innovative beverage companies is Nektar Natura. The company develops “comprehensive solutions for dispensing beverages in hotels, bars, and other public places”. Their offerings include over 220 fruit and vegetable drinks made from local ingredients and adapted to local taste. Their natural juices are present in over 35 countries and in major hotel chains like Hilton and Kempinski.

Incom, with 160 million euros of annual sales, and Nektar Natura, with 46 million, are well-established fast-growing SMEs. Their formula for success is followed by numerous smaller companies and start ups. These young companies often promote healthier nutrition and respect for the natural environment. Names to watch in the future: plant based meat alternative producer Bevo, Grashka; a company developing fermented chickpea ice cream, La Popsi, and Naturalica Foods with its “innovative sweet creations” and largest chocolate café network in Slovenia.

Some of the mentioned companies will also exhibit at Slovenia's national pavillion at this year's ANUGA in Cologne.