The Moldovan government has approved the merger of the joint-stock companies "Barza Albă" and "Aroma," a strategic move aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing market performance for both entities.
This reorganization, managed by the Public Property Agency as the sole shareholder, is expected to strengthen the companies' market positions, increase sales locally and internationally, and improve technological capabilities and product quality.
Strategic Merger for Market Strengthening
Roman Cojuhari, Director of the Public Property Agency, emphasized that the absorption of "Aroma" by "Barza Albă" will consolidate the market position of the merged entity. The integration is anticipated to boost sales volumes and exports through enhanced technological investments, increased productivity, and superior product quality.
Financial and Operational Improvements
Over the past three years, "Barza Albă" has demonstrated a positive trajectory, achieving national heritage status and inclusion in the list of assets that cannot be privatized. The company has seen significant revenue and profit growth, reinforcing its strategic importance. Conversely, "Aroma," despite its heritage value and potential, suffered from poor management until 2013, leading to insolvency and loss of state control.
With the merger, "Barza Albă" will absorb "Aroma," addressing its debts and leveraging its potential to improve management, unify sales efforts, and enhance profitability. Cojuhari also proposed the exemption of "Barza Albă" from paying dividends for 2023 to support this integration effort.
Leveraging Brands and Expanding Markets
Post-reorganization, the valuable brands, distillate stocks, and divin (Moldovan brandy) owned by "Aroma" will be effectively capitalized, enabling market expansion and diversification. The forecast for 2025 includes a projected 23% increase in net sales compared to the current year, further consolidating the company's market presence.
Legacy and Market Reach of "Barza Albă"
"Barza Albă," with a history spanning about 80 years, has an extensive sales network covering countries such as Australia, the USA, Romania, Israel, China, the Baltic States, the Czech Republic, Germany, the CIS, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Recognized as a national cultural heritage of the Republic of Moldova in 2022, the company's legacy dates back to its founding in 1944 in Bălți municipality.
Initially a small grape processing unit, "Barza Albă" evolved into a symbol of Moldova's rich winemaking traditions. The company boasts a high production capacity and a diverse portfolio of Divins aged from 3 to 50 years. The exceptional quality of "Barza Albă" Divins is attributed to generations of dedicated specialists who refined wine distillates through barrel aging.
International Recognition and Awards
"Barza Albă" has earned over 150 medals at international exhibitions and tasting competitions, including 80 gold medals, 10 "Grand Prix" awards, and the prestigious Star AWARD for outstanding quality indicators. This international acclaim underscores the company's commitment to excellence and innovation in winemaking.
Conclusion
The merger of "Barza Albă" and "Aroma" represents a significant step in the evolution of Moldova's wine industry. By combining resources and expertise, the newly integrated company is poised to enhance its market position, increase sales, and continue the legacy of producing high-quality Moldovan wines and brandies. This strategic move not only strengthens the domestic market but also boosts Moldova's presence in the global wine industry.