Nestlé has announced a significant investment of €44.2 million in its Sofia production facilities, marking a major expansion 23 years after the introduction of the first KitKat production line. The investment underscores Bulgaria’s growing importance in Nestlé’s global manufacturing strategy.
The new production line will double the plant's annual output and create 70 new jobs, the economy ministry said in a press release. The factory's capacity will expand by 15,000 tonnes annually, the labour ministry said in a separate statement.
The output will be exported to 18 markets, including the UK, France, Italy, Austria and Canada.
Nestle’s Sofia factory, which currently employs over 1,000 staff, will also become the only site in Europe making products under the KitKat Tablets brand.
Earlier this month, Nestle Bulgaria reported a 7.9% year-on-year increase in organic sales in 2024, outpacing the group's overall growth of 2.2%.
Expanded production Capabilities
• Significant Investment: €44.2 million invested in new facilities.
• New Facility Size: Production area spans over 3,250 square meters.
• High-Speed Production: Machines produce 420 chocolate bars per minute.
• Extensive production Line: Each chocolate bar travels 1.2 kilometers during production.
Reconstruction of the factory building took two years and several months.
Sofia becomes Key Export Hub
The Sofia factory now serves 17 markets worldwide, including major economies such as the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Canada, solidifying its role as a crucial export hub. This expansion has also created 70 new jobs, bolstering the local economy.
Strategic Importance for KitKat Production
Nestlé has designated its Sofia factory as the sole production centre in Europe for KitKat chocolate. This decision, according to the company, “puts our country high on the map of Nestle’s global manufacturers,” positioning Bulgaria as a leader in chocolate production within the Nestlé network.
Company Statement
“Nestle’s new investment in Bulgaria worth 44.2 million euros is the result of the increasing interest in Kitkat, both in Bulgaria and overall European and globally,” the company stated, highlighting the strategic rationale behind the investment.
Sustainability Initiatives
• Reduced Gas Consumption: Innovative technology reduces gas consumption by up to 30%.
• Water Conservation: Water consumption is slashed by 67%.
• Carbon Footprint Reduction: Total carbon footprint is reduced by 30%.
• Recyclable Packaging: All packaging is designed for recycling.
Executive Outlook
“This investment is a confirmation of Nestle’s great confidence in the team in Bulgaria to produce high quality and safe food and reaffirms the expertise of the entire team of our factory in Sofia as a competent innovative center for the development of chocolate products. to see how a brand like Kitkat already begins its life as chocolate, and right here with us and has the ambition to give even more joyful moments and Full vacations of millions of people around the world,” said Peter Stoilov, Executive Director of Nestle Bulgaria.
Historical Importance and Current Scale
• Rich History: The chocolate factory in Sofia was established in 1939.
• Major Production Hub: It is one of the three largest Kitkat production centers in Europe.
• Significant Output: It produces over 15,000 tonnes annually.
• Export-Oriented: 90% of the finished products are exported.
• Local Market: 10% is sold in the local market.
• Employment: Over 650 employees work at the factory.
Looking Ahead
Nestlé’s continued investment in Bulgaria reflects a commitment to sustainable growth and innovation. With state-of-the-art facilities and a skilled workforce, the Sofia factory is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting the growing global demand for KitKat and othre chocolate products. As Nestlé continues to expand its operations in Bulgaria, consumers can anticipate even more joyful moments fueled by chocolate made with care and precision. Explore Nestlé’s product range and discover your next favorite treat today.