Chirifruit was founded 10 years ago by the combined efforts of three sisters as a small family business specializing in handmade confectionery. From the very beginning, the company experienced steady growth, earning a successful business status for what was initially a small entrepreneurial venture. Today, Chirifruit is recognized as a producer of high-quality handmade and gift-worthy sweets.
The owners of our organization are Sofio Jikia, Maia Jikia, and Madona Jikia, each contributing to different functional areas of the company, ensuring its sustainability and growth.
• Sophio Jikia is responsible for marketing and communication operations.
• Maia Jikia oversees the financial management of the company.
• Madona Jikia is in charge of the company’s technological direction.
• The company employs 38 people, including 34 women and 3 men, demonstrating a strong commitment to empowering women in business. We support also our student employees through flexible schedules.
Chirifruit produces handmade treats that stand out for their exceptional taste, natural ingredients, and top-tier quality. The product range includes:
• Sweets made from natural dried fruits and chocolate
• Churchkhela (sweets of grapes juice and walnuts)
• Tklapi (fruit leather rolls)
The refined packaging and unique concept of the products not only make them a source of culinary pleasure but also a part of Georgian gift culture.
Our products are available in leading retail chains in Tbilisi on our exclusive stands, as well as in duty-free zones at Tbilisi, Batumi and Kutaisi airports, and in 25 locations nationwide across Georgia, mostly in capital city.
Chirifruit is entering a new phase. To expand the business, we have acquired a new manufacturing space in Mtskheta municipality village Akhalubani, and renovation work is almost complete.
To meet current market demand and scale the business, the company requires Additional investments in modern equipment to Adhere to international quality standards and implementing food safety management systems ISO 22000.
Over the years, Chirifruit has operated from a small rented facility in Tbilisi with a minimal investment. This period was an initial stage of our development, marking a significant step in the creation of quality products and establishing our presence in the market. Starting with a small budget, the business has shown an annual growth of 12-15%.
Chirifruit participated in exhibitions organized by Globalize (www.globalize.ge) in USA, which significantly increased the visibility of our products.
Chirifruit successfully passed FDA certification, an essential step for entering the U.S. market. The products we sent are being sold on online platforms: Yummy Bazaar and Gourmet Food Marketplace.
Our organization participated in a project funded by Donor organization “Digital Innovations Agency”, for which we received a grant. This support allowed us to implement digital technologies within the company, marking an important step in our development process.
The Chirifruit team also participated in a series of masterclasses with Swiss technology expert, which provided valuable knowledge and experience in the field of dry chocolate production. in 2015 Chirifruit participated in a study tour to Armenia organized by the USAID REAP program.
In 2023 Chirifruit participated in a The USAID Agriculture Program to facilitate links between local ratailers and international hotels operating in Georgia. Chirifruit has participated in the international exhibitions in Germany, “Green week 2023” and in Baku “CASPIAN AGRO 2022” - Supported by the Rural Development Agency.
Georgia
Mtskheta-Mtianeti,
2014
FDA certificate
