Rieber & Søn Czech Republic

Rieber & Søn Czech Republic has the Vitana brand, among others, and is one of the biggest food producers in the Czech Republic with long traditions.

Vitana is the market leader in a number of categories and also has a strong position in Slovakia. In the same way as Toro, Vitana has strong positions in the area of soups, sauces and casseroles. Over the years it has also broadened its portfolio based on innovations in established categories and through initiatives in new categories.

In 2009 the plant in Bysice underwent the improvement programme linked to the “Our Future” project with the aim of raising productivity. This has helped to increase Vitana’s profitability, in conjunction with good cost control.

The main new product to be introduced in 2009 was the delicious, health-bringing “Natur” concept, which was first launched as a bouillon and then as a soup. Throughout the year market shares were stable in both the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

The business related to the production and sale of taste ingredients was integrated with Rieber & Søn Czech Republic in 2009. This activity was previously a separate business unit within the Group under the name Rieber & Søn Food Ingredients.

The Czech business recorded improved sales and operating profits in 2009.