Türkiye, Uzbekistan boost food trade with Ülker’s entry
Turkish food giant Ülker opens direct distribution center in Tashkent, expanding reach across Uzbekistan’s fast-growing market
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Turkish confectionery giant Ülker has expanded its Central Asian footprint with the opening of a new distribution and sales operation in Uzbekistan, aiming to reach thousands of retail outlets nationwide.
According to UZDaily, the company’s new enterprise, Pladis Confectionery, has launched a Direct Distribution Center in Tashkent alongside a broad dealer network across 12 major cities. Ülker’s products are now set to become widely available to consumers across the country.
Ülker, one of Türkiye’s most iconic food brands, has a longstanding presence in the region, operating a factory in Kazakhstan for over 25 years. Its expansion into Uzbekistan marks a strategic move to strengthen its market position in one of Central Asia’s fastest-growing economies.
The company’s leadership, including Ülker CEO Özgür Kölükfakı and Murat Ülker, Chairman of the Board of Pladis and GODIVA, attended the opening ceremony in Tashkent, alongside Turkish diplomatic representatives.
Speaking at the event, Kölükfakı emphasized the importance of the Uzbek market. “Uzbekistan’s dynamic growth and recent economic reforms make it a key destination for investment. Through our Direct Distribution Center, we plan to supply more than 30,000 retail points across the country, delivering 105 product types weekly,” he said.
Ülker officials noted that about 5,000 of the retail locations are concentrated in Tashkent, with 25,000 spread across other regions. The company sees long-term potential in the market, driven by Uzbekistan’s population of around 38 million and increasing demand for diversified food products.
Founded in 1944, Ülker is known globally for its wide range of biscuits, chocolates, wafers, and cakes, and operates as part of Pladis, a global snack company with a presence in over 120 countries.