Croatia – business friendly country → Croatia must stop missing opportunities, said CCE President PAGES 2-5
SUPPORTED BY THE CROATIAN CHAMBER OF ECONOMY
www.privredni.hr
Ivica Pivac, The Pivac Brothers Meat Industry → In Croatia, competitiveness should be the goal of everyone PAGES 8-12
Stjepan Pezo, President, of Management Board, Galeb → There is a future, against all odds PAGES 16-19
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April 2017, Year X, No 268
THE INSTITUTE OF ECONOMICS, ZAGREB
3.3% GDP GROWTH EXPECTED THIS YEAR 2017 could see growth in loan volumes since improvements in the labour market are anticipated, as well as upward trends in the consumer sentiment index and more vigorous economic growth by Ilijana Grgić
I
n the latest edition of their Croatian Economic Outlook quarterly, analysts at the Institute of Economics, Zagreb announced that the GDP growth rate will accelerate to 3.3% in 2017 but will see slight slowdown in growth of 2.9% in 2018. Of the 3.3% projected growth rate, domestic demand will account for 3.1%, with the level of nett foreign trade to be slight, but also exerting a positive impact of 0.2%, primarily as a result of the export of goods and another successful tourist season. Over the next year, domestic demand will increase additionally to 3.4%, but due to an acceleration in the rise in imports, nett foreign trade will show the greatest negative effect during the last decade, reaching 0.6%. During the first six months of 2017, government spending is likely to show more significant growth against the backdrop of a more vigorous economic revival, as well as the stabilisation of public finances, and partially also as a result of local elections in May. Nevertheless, if the costs of the tax reforms are considered, which will substantially reduce tax revenue in 2017, the Institute of Economics, Zagreb, expects the government spending growth rate to see a slight decrease of 1.4% in 2017, compared with last year. In the case where political
consensus is reached following local elections, further reforms may be expected, as well as fiscal rationalisation and an additional slowdown of government spending growth rate which is likely to be 0.7% in 2018.
INVESTMENT GROWTH ANTICIPATED Investment growth will account for around one third of this year’s expected GDP growth rate, which is the highest share of investment growth since 2008. Analysts at the Institute of Economics, Zagreb, expect the investment implemented in 2017 to rise by 5.4%, and by 7.1% year-onyear in 2018. The budget deficit is likely to reach around 1.5% of GDP. Nevertheless, analysts have pointed out a broad range of
risks, such as the agreement to increase salaries for both public and civil servants which had not been planned in this year’s budget, increasing debts in the health sector, rising interest rates in the Eurozone which is likely to increase the interest costs on public debt, potential court action undertaken by banks concerning the issue of the conversion of loans in Swiss francs into Euros, the restructuring of Croatian motorways, the financing of INA’s shares owned by MOL in order for the state to take over the ownership of this energy company and the potential state aid to the largest Croatian company, Agrokor. Following a drop in consumer prices for three consecutive years, prices this year are likely to rise by 1.4% over 2016, primarily as a result of increasing prices of oil derivatives and food, as well as due to a growth of GDP rate in the hospitality industry. Analysts at the Institute of Economics, Zagreb believe that this year is likely to see an increase in loan volume, due to expected improvements on the labour market, the upward trend of consumer sentiment index and more vigorous economic growth which may well impact positively on loan financing of large-scale asset purchase such as the purchase of vehicles or property.
CROATIA – BUSINESS FRIENDLY COUNTRY
CROATIA MUST STOP MISSING OPPORTUNITIES The Government action plan is the most important guideline to the way to a better business environment. I am deeply convinced that unlike the measures of the past, these will be implemented. At the same time, we need to change our tax policy in order to aid our economy, CCE President said by Krešimir Sočković
C Positive macroeconomic trends have simplified the process of taking loans on the international market. As a consequence, we have managed to refinance our debts successfully.
Andrej Plenković, Croatian Prime Minister
roatia has over 50 inspection services and we will unite them in one reform package so they could better co-ordinate and become more efficient, Government President Andrej Plenković announced at the press conference Croatia – business friendly country?, recently organised by the Croatian Chamber of Economy (CCE). Positive macroeconomic trends have simplified the process of taking loans on the international market. As a consequence, we managed to refinance our debts successfully. These trends sent the message of stability and that we are serious about everything we are doing. Capital does not turn a blind eye – its eye is on its interest, Plenković highlighted. The Prime Minister also noted the prognosis of all three global credit rating agencies who evaluate Croatia’s rating as stable. This is mainly the result of the work of Croatian entrepreneurs, those who produce and export and who can be competitive in what they do. Through the CCE, the Government listens to the needs of entrepreneurs, and politics as well as an economy that should behave in the same manner, Plenković pointed out.
THE WORD OF ENTREPRENEURS AS A GUIDELINE The only direction we need to take is the one mentioned by entrepreneurs, CCE President Luka Burilović says. Frequent changes to the law, differently interpreted tax regulations, penalisation of tax payers due to small irregularities, numerous and redundant administrative procedures which only pile up unnecessary expenses, are all the things that represent the biggest burden to business. Croatia must create
2 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
a stable and long-term legislative framework for business which would be clear to everyone and which would not change along with the government. Every law must be tested in the economy, and the harmonisation of the education system with the needs of the labour mar-
CROATIA HAS OVER 50 INSPECTION SERVICES AND WE WILL UNITE THEM, PLENKOVIĆ HIGHLIGHTED ket should be an imperative. At the same time, electronic business and electronic administration should be the rule, Burilović highlighted. According to the CCE, the Government Action Plan is the most important guideline on the way to a better business environment. “I am deeply convinced that unlike the measures of the past, these will be implemented. At the same time we need to change our tax policy in order to aid our economy. Until recently we had the highest taxes compared with all other surrounding countries. This encouraged entrepreneurs to leave Croatia and it rejected potential investors. Croatia must stop missing opportunities. We need to concentrate all our potential and put it to action so that the Croatian economy becomes what it deserves to be”, Burilović evaluates. Many German companies contribute to the growth of Croatia and they respect the co-
April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 3
CROATIA – BUSINESS FRIENDLY COUNTRY
CCE SURVEY ON BUSINESS OBSTACLES
Croatian business and investment climate in Croatia is not stimulating for business and investments Almost 83% of entrepreneurs consider the Croatian business and investment climate as not stimulating for business and investment. At the same time, the biggest, but also insignificant progress of the business climate is felt in the area of tax contributions and the labour market, CCE Vice-President for the International Affairs, EU Želimir Kramarić, said when he presented the results of the CCE’s survey on business obstacles. Any deterioration is reflected in legal uncertainty. This is precisely why we need to decrease the administrative pressure on entrepreneurs advocating e-business, that is, a higher degree of computerisation in order to decrease exces-
sive record-keeping and costs. This must all be monitored by a network of competent institutions, considering that 84% of entrepreneurs feel that the public administration is inefficient, Kramarić said. He also highlighted that small and medium-sized entrepreneurs are insufficiently financed from external sources. The mechanism of having favourable loans from EU sources, additional conditions introduced through auctions from commercial banks, is becoming inaccessible to the majority of entrepreneurs for whom these loans are intended. This is why we suggest direct loans through the CBRD, Kramarić concludes. The analyses have shown that complicated procedures are en-
trepreneurs’ biggest obstacles in using EU funds. The surveyed entrepreneurs also pointed out the problem of the lack of workforce in some sectors, insufficient possibility to hire foreigners and discord between the education system and market demand. Entrepreneurs are also troubled by excessive irregularity at all levels. One of the most common examples includes contradictory rules or laws as well as penalties often not harmonised with the level of the offence itself. The survey points to the need for investing funds into entrepreneurial projects, but the grey economy, collection of payments and nonpayments which are not penalised remain major concerns.
Business climate rating in Croatia How do you evaluate Croatia’s business and investment climate?
8%
Was there any progress in the business climate in the period between 2015 and 2016?
8%
Not stimulating for business and investment
9%
No Yes
Stimulating for business and investment
83%
Other
Evaluation of business climate progress per area TAX DUTIES
1,29 1,09
LABOUR MARKET LABOUR LEGISLATION
1,04
OTHER NON-TAX DUTIES
1,01
35%
Other
57%
Areas in which entrepreneurs still notice the most serious business obstacles
JUSTICE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION TAX DUTIES
LEGAL SECURITY
0,75 0,75
OTHER NON-TAX DUTIES
JUSTICE
0,56
ACCESS TO FINANCING
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
0=No progress, 1=the smallest progress ... 5=the largest progress
3,38 3,82 3,79 3,75 3,71 3,71 3,33
LEGAL INSECURITY ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
LABOUR LEGISLATION LABOUR MARKET
3,11 2,99
0=Not an obstacle, 1=the smallest obstacle... 5=the largest obstacle Source: Croatian Chamber of Economy
4 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
operation between the German and Croatian Chambers, which will continue in the future, as German Ambassador to Croatia Thomas Eberhard Schultze said. Trade is booming. Since 2013, we have also been partners in the EU, and we know each other pretty well, helping each other in solving problems. This conference carries an interesting title, which for now ends with a question mark. We all want to transform this question mark into an exclamation so that Croatia could actually become a business friendly country, Schultze concludes.
EXCESSIVE TAXATION A panel discussion was also held at the conference with the accent on the use of EU funds for the purpose of improving the business of small and medium-sized enterprises, the business climate in Croatia and the influence of tax reform. Deputy to the Finance Minister and Director of Tax Administration, Zdravko Zrinušić,
OUR MAIN CONCERN IS THE PROBLEMATIC EXCHANGE RATE POLICY, THAT IS, A STRONG KUNA, MARINKO DOŠEN SAID highlights that analyses performed amongst entrepreneurs show that our taxes are too high compared with others in the region; tax regulations change too often. For example,
they changed 44 times between 2012 and 2014. This complicates business for everyone. On the other hand, we have electronic business; a large proportion of entrepreneurs do not even use, but they rather communicate with the tax administration by paper. The tax administration now collects its regular way over 98% of €13.6 billion in taxes, and only a small portion in distraints or other methods, Zrinušić said. State Secretary to the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts, Nataša Mikuš Žigman, points out that the new Public Procurement Act should simplify business both for the contracting entity and those competing. On the other hand, entrepreneurs dispose with EU funds which offer something for almost all areas. The ministries’ subsidies for certain sectors exist, but they must be in accordance with the action plans, Nataša Mikuš Žigman says. Taxation in all countries we operate in are lower than those on the local market, but nett salaries on the Croatian market are the highest, except for Slovakia, Board President of AD Plastika Marinko Došen says. Our main concern is the problematic exchange rate policy, that is, a strong kuna, which certainly affects Croatian competitiveness in terms of exports. There are independent estimates ranging between 5% and 20% of the currency overvalue. A long-term plan could shift the exchange rate into a more realistic framework, Došen added. The Board President of Dalekovod Alen Premužak said his company is fortunate to operate almost 80% on the international market which decreases risks. We are all pleased with the export growth registered by Croatia during the past year, but we should check the structure of these exports and what this growth is based on, Premužak says.
We are all pleased with the export growth seen by Croatia during the past year, but we should check the structure of these exports and what such growth is based on.
Alen Premužak, Board President of Dalekovod
April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 5
RENEWABLE ENERGY
CROATIA CAN ACHIEVE ITS GOALS National goals take into consideration different starting points of each member country, RES potential and economic effect. Eleven countries have already reached the level required for meeting their national goals by 2020. by Boris Odorčić (39.3%), Latvia (37.6%), Austria (33%) and Denmark (30.8%). Luxembourg, Malta and the Netherlands are situated at the other end of the scale. More precisely, the renewables share in gross direct consumption in Luxembourg and Malta totals 5%; 5.8% in the Netherlands, 7.9% in Belgium and 8.2% in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
REACHING THE GOALS
T
he percentage of energy from renewable sources (RES) in gross direct energy consumption in the European Union reached 16.7% in 2015. This is almost double that if 2004 when it was 8.5%, according to data published by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union. It is important to highlight that one of the goals set out in the Europe Strategy 2020 is reaching a level of 20% of renewables in gross direct consumption of energy. However, renewable sources will play a key role in meeting the EU’s demand for energy even after 2020. For this reason, member countries have already agreed on the new goal - a percentage of RES in gross 6 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
direct energy consumption in the European Union should reach 27% by 2030. Since 2004, the first year data were recorded, the percentage of RES has increased significantly in all member countries. In 2015, the largest RES level was recorded in Sweden, producing 53.9% of energy in gross final consumption from renewable sources, followed by Finland
Each EU member country has its goal within the Europe Strategy 2020. National goals take into consideration different starting points of member countries, RES potential and economic effect. It is interesting to highlight that of the 28 member countries, 11 have already reached the level required for meeting national goals by 2020. They are Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Croatia, Italy, Lithuania, Hungary, Romania, Finland and Sweden. Austria and Slovakia range around 1% from meeting their goals. On the opposite side, there are those countries farthest from their goals. They are the Netherlands (8.2%), France (7.8%), Ireland and Great Britain (both with 6.8%) and Luxembourg (6%).
SINCE 2004, THE FIRST YEAR DATA WERE RECORDED, THE SHARE OF RES HAS INCREASED SIGNIFICANTLY IN ALL MEMBER COUNTRIES
Share of energy from renewable sources in the EU Member States (in % of gross final energy consumption)
2020. target achieved 2020. target
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
UK
Belgium
Ireland
Poland
Cyprus
Slovakia
Hungary
Germany
Czech Rep.
France
Greece
Italy
Spain
Bulgaria
Slovenia
Romania
Lithuania
Portugal
Croatia
Estonia
Denmark
Austria
Latvia
Finland
Sweden
EU
2015. 2004.
Share of energy from renewable sources (in % of gross final energy consumption) EU Austria Belgium
2004
2012
2013
2014
2015.
2020 target
2004
2012
2013
2014
2015.
2020 target
8.5
14.4
15.2
16.1
16.7
20
Luxembourg
0.9
3.1
3.5
4.5
5.0
11
22.6
31.4
32.3
32.8
33.0
34
Malta
0.1
2.8
3.7
4.7
5.0
10
1.9
7.2
7.5
8.0
7.9
13
Netherlands
2.1
4.7
4.8
5.5
5.8
14
Bulgaria
9.4
16.0
19.0
18.0
18.2
16
Poland
6.9
10.9
11.4
11.5
11.8
15
Croatia
23.5
26.8
28.0
27.9
29.0
20
Portugal
19.2
24.6
25.7
27.0
28.0
31
Cyprus
3.1
6.8
8.1
8.9
9.4
13
Romania
16.3
22.8
23.9
24.8
24.8
24
Czech Republic
6.8
12.8
13.8
15.1
15.1
13
Slovakia
6.4
10.4
10.1
11.7
12.9
14
Denmark
14.9
25.7
27.4
29.3
30.8
30
Slovenia
16.1
20.8
22.4
21.5
22.0
25
Estonia
18.4
25.8
25.6
26.3
28.6
25
Spain
8.3
14.3
15.3
16.1
16.2
20
Finland
29.2
34.4
36.7
38.7
39.3
38
Sweden
38.7
51.1
52.0
52.5
53.9
49
France
9.4
13.4
14.1
14.7
15.2
23
United Kingdom
1.1
4.6
5.7
7.1
8.2
15
Germany
5.8
12.1
12.4
13.8
14.6
18
Iceland
58.9
72.5
71.7
70.5
70.2
64
Greece
6.9
13.5
15.0
15.3
15.4
18
Norway
58.1
65.6
66.7
69.4
69.4
68
Hungary
4.4
15.5
16.2
14.6
14.5
13
Albania
28.1
35.2
33.2
32.0
34.9
38
Ireland
2.4
7.2
7.7
8.7
9.2
16
FYR of Macedonia
15.7
18.1
18.5
19.6
19.9
28
Italy
6.3
15.4
16.7
17.1
17.5
17
Monte Negro
:
41.6
43.7
44.1
43.1
33
Latvia
17.2
21.4
22.7
23.6
25.8
23
Turkey
16.2
13.1
14.0
13.7
13.6
-
32.8
35.7
37.1
38.7
37.6
40
Lithuania
Source: Eurostat
: data not available
- not applicable
April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 7
INTERVIEW IVICA PIVAC, BOARD PRESIDENT, THE PIVAC BROTHERS MEAT
Believe me, a bad product cannot reach a foreign trade chain even if you are giving it away for free.
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INDUSTRY
IN CROATIA, COMPETITIVENESS SHOULD BE THE GOAL OF EVERYONE There is not a single product of the processing industry in the world which is competitive if its price and quality are not acceptable. We do not have either in Croatia. It would be ideal if we had our own raw materials, but it is insufficient, unfortunately by Jozo Vrdoljak
T
he Pivac Brothers Meat Industry (original: Mesna industrija Braća Pivac) is one of the largest production companies in Dalmatia (and Croatia), and is the base company of the Pivac Group comprised of PPK Karlovac, Dalmesso from Klis and Vajda from Čakovec. The company owners also own the Sol tourism company which includes four hotels (two in Makarska and two in Dubrovnik). This company is the largest individual shareholder in Kraš, and has a significant share in Makarska Hotels. They also own a couple of farms and several other smaller companies. The Pivac Brothers Meat Industry and the town of Vrgorac have recently signed a sales contract for three areas of land covering 32,695 m2 near Vrgorac. Privredni vjesnik spoke with Ivica Pivac about recent events in the processing industry, new investment, the position and state of the market and business activities related to trade chains. Ivica Pivac also talked about their plans regarding investment and raw materials.
What is the value of your investment in the production of prosciutto? The investment is worth over €10 million. In addition to buying the land, the investment also includes a modern prosciutto production area of over 9,500 m2.
What is your current production capacity of prosciutto and by how much do you intend to increase it?
IT WOULD ALL BE DIFFERENT IN THIS COUNTRY IF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION WAS IN SURPLUS, NOT DEFICIT At the moment, we produce over 150,000 units of prosciutto a year. Our new production area will double this capacity. By concentrating production, which currently operates at three different locations, the entire process of producing cured produce will take place in the new state-of-the-art production area with a total capacity of 4,500 tonnes. We will then be able to produce over 300,000 pieces of Dalmatian prosciutto protected by the ‘geographic origin’ label and over 2,200 tonnes of Dalmatian pancetta, Kraški vrat and Dalmatian pečenica (smoked sausage). Concerning the technological aspect, the production area will be a combination of the most modern April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 9
INTERVIEW At the moment our role in Kraš remains without clear goals Could you comment on the situation in Kraš? Is it possible you will take over Kraš as the biggest single shareholder? I don’t know. We are the biggest single shareholder and we own around 23% of the shares in Kraš. Together with ESOP this is over 50% of the shares. Considering we constantly buy shares, we could reach 25%. However, if a buyer appears, it is also possible we will relinquish ownership. For now, our role in Kraš remains without
€
over million
10 0
invested in the factory for making prosciutto
€
around billion
0.25 5
a year in revenue generated by the Pivac Group bythe
150,000 units of prosciutto a year produced by the Pivac Brothers
concepts from Spain and Italy and our traditional prosciutto production. Dalmatian prosciutto can only be produced in Dalmatia and according to a special recipe. The goal is to maintain and advance the production of Dalmatian prosciutto as well as its competitiveness. We have over 50% market share in all these products. The construction work will start as soon as the project-technological documentation is completed, sometime at the end of this year.
What do you mean by competitive? Competitiveness should be the goal of everyone in Croatia. Unfortunately, Croatian production is not competitive enough on the world market. This is actually our main economic problem. It is not always the right way to increase employment. The goal should be to increase competitiveness and to be competitive. This must the No.1 goal of every entrepreneur. This means secured income and job sustainability for those working. Employment increase should follow only when this is achieved. Of course, we will hire new workers in our new factory. We actually employ all the time. How can competitiveness be achieved? There is no single product of the processing industry in the world which is competitive if its price and quality are not acceptable. We do not have either in Croatia. It would be ideal if we had our own raw materials, but it is insufficient, unfortunately. Also, there are double standards. They resent the wood industry for exporting raw material, yet the production of furniture is promoted. They resent the processing industry for importing raw materials. It would all be different if agricultural production was in surplus, not deficit. The combination of tourism and agriculture could be a winning combination. The war is not the reason we are not competitive.
10 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
clear goals. In the past, we evaluated Kraš shares as perspective given its business, brand value and other aspects. This is why we started buying them. Are you satisfied with the management of Kraš? This is something I cannot influence much. We have only one of seven members on the Supervisory Board. Considering our share, it would be logical if we had greater influence.
Why are we not competitive? There are many reasons. Technology is one. Another reason is certainly the tradition of small entrepreneurship and poor organisation. For example, we barely produce one million pigs. On the other hand, Denmark which is smaller than Croatia produces 25 million. Our macroeconomy is poor. The price of capital in Croatia is much higher compared with other countries. Damages incurred by privatisation and pre-bankruptcy settlements are other reasons. Imports have finally picked up, but then the kuna weakened. It is as if someone wants to sabotage exports. One of the reasons is a catastrophic attitude towards employers. Lack of competitiveness is a consequence of all contributions and everything I have said.
THE COMBINATION OF TOURISM AND AGRICULTURE IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS Why do local producers import raw material? Because we do not have enough raw materials on the Croatian market. There are barely one million of pigs, but the market demand is for several millions. Nobody stops us from exporting, but how can we export when we do not have enough basic products even for our own needs? When the market is closed, then it is normal to speak against imports. However, in the case of an open market, this does not make any sense. The Croatian processing industry depends on importing raw materials. If we had enough local raw material, which we do not in any segments, then the industry would be stronger.
You mentioned a poor attitude towards employers. Could it be the employers’ own fault for this? Naturally, not every employer is the same, but I feel we are treated otherwise. This is precisely the problem. However, perhaps there is a reason for this. It is true, there were arguments for bad relations towards some entrepreneurs through privatisation and pre-bankruptcy settlements. We are maybe a unique example in the world that someone, whose company ended in the pre-bankruptcy settlement procedure, has high standards. That is, his standards have increased considerably. As an entrepreneur and employer, I find this amazing and confusing. This is why I do understand why the attitude is poor, but not all of us developed in the same way. Describe the operations of the Pivac Group. Our revenue is around €0.25 billion a year and our business operations are always positive. We always meet our obligations on time. The Group employs around 2,200 staff. The Pivac Brothers Meat Industry is the leader on the market with current annual production of 150,000 pieces of Dalmatian prosciutto, and this new investment will create the preconditions for a multiple increase of our production capacity as well our co-operation with the local producers which now breed over 100,000 pigs.
What are your plans for Vajda? We took over Vajda last year and currently own around 86% of the shares. With Vajda we should be able to close the circle. We are preparing to investment around €6.7 million which would modernise and expand our plant during the next two years. We are also investing in the renovation of the slaughterhouse and to increase co-operation. When we took over Vajda, there were 35,000 fatlings, and our plan is to end this year with around 100,000. Our ultimate goal is to have around 150,000 fatlings in current production, and we will reach this number in 2018. The slaughterhouse currently produces 90-100 pigs an hour. After the renovation, its capacity will be around 170. Also, after the renovation, our plan is to use 50% of our production and 50% will be repurchased. The price of pork in Croatia has somehow become equal to the price in Europe, which is another reason we opted for this investment. Five years ago, this was not the case and the difference was very large. Is the prosciutto factory in Drniš and owned by Vajda still operating? Is this im-
portant for you since the Drniš prosciutto is a brand? It is still operating, even though it is a small factory. It used to produce around 2,000 units of prosciutto, but we have raised this production to 6,000. The technology for producing the Dalmatian and the Drniš prosciutto is the same.
Some have remarked that the slaughterhouse in Vrgorac was not tidy. Why was it untidy? I do not know why this was published since we have not had a slaughterhouse in Vrgorac for seven years.
Did you have any experience with drawing EU funds? Yes, we did, in the case of PPK Karlovac where we invested around €12 million. The funds were approved over two years ago, but we have not received them to date. Everything is too slow. We expect to finish a three-year project for the development of the plant and business optimisation of the PPK Karlovac Meat Industry, a total value of €12.7 million co-financed from EU funds.
Discussions with chains are difficult, but when it comes to the possibility of not paying, there is no discussion. We can negotiate standards and conditions, but timely payments are not negotiable.
Is it true you managed to position yourselves well in tourism? April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 11
INTERVJU ity of not paying, there is no discussion. Believe me, a bad product cannot reach a foreign trade chain even if you are giving it for free.
Which trade chains do you work with? Mainly all of them. Why your products cannot be found in Konzum? We have recently started working again with Konzum.
Agrokor is your competition as far as
You do not have much choice here. The combination of tourism and agriculture is the key to success.
When the market is closed, then it is normal to speak against imports. However, in the case of an open market, this does not make any sense. The Croatian processing industry depends on importing raw materials. If we had enough local raw materials, which we do not in any segments, then industry would be stronger.
How much have you invested so far? As brothers and owners, we own equal shares of the company, and we do not take a dividend, we re-invest everything. My standard has been the same as during the 1980’s. I cannot say how much we invested exactly, but I would not be wrong to say that we have invested around €150 million so far. How many retail outlets do you have? We have over 260 retail outlets, some of which we own and some we rent. This secures our liquidity. The Minister of Agriculture spoke publicly about business conditions with some trade chains. What is it like to do business with them? Meaning that the buyer takes the producers’ goods and puts an 80% margin on them? The buyer will add the margin he wants. This is the situation on the market. It is another thing if the buyer forces the producer to sell the product below its cost-effective price. The Pivac Brothers Meat Industry places its products at the maximum achievable price. It is entirely upon the buyer to decide the level of his margin. The buyer will either succeed or fail in selling this product based on this decision. Are these types of negotiations difficult? Do you have difficulties with payment? Naturally the negotiations are difficult. However, when we come to an agreement then we enter the phase of operational implementation. We do not have any payment problems with the chains we co-operate with. This is not our problem anymore. Discussions with the chains are difficult, but when it comes to the possibil-
12 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
your products are concerned. Yes, it is our great competitor on the market. PIK Vrbovec is a modern and technologically advanced factory.
Could you comment on the present situation of Agrokor? I would not want to comment, nor do I avoid talking about this subject. I simply do not have anything smart to say about it. Will there be catastrophic consequences for the producers? I don’t think so. Kraš, Franck, Podravka and others are all good companies and they will recover. They will find other sales outlets. Concerning the PIK companies and companies of the Agrokor system, they will be managed in another way. These are good companies and someone will manage them well. Everyone will continue working. No work is risk free. However, when everything relies on the market, those working can suffer damage at a certain moment. The damage is then repaired, and the work continues. This is especially the case with good companies. In the case of Agrokor it is possible that the creditors could take the short end. Could you comment on the work of the Agricultural Minister? I would not like to make any comments. Noone is against sorting out the market situation, but this is something you have to know how to do. A sufficient amount of local raw materials should be provided, which we do not have at the moment. Our production meets the highest standards in agreement with the international quality and safety standards (IFS Food), HACCP system for food safety, quality management system ISO 9001 and the specification of the geographic origin protection label. You have to meet 110 conditions to meet the IFS standard, and this is very complicated. Investing in the quality and abiding by the highest standards are all preconditions for a successful and sustainable business.
CCE LEATHER PROCESSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
WE ARE IN NEED OF TECHNOLOGICAL RENOVATION Systematic innovation and new product design and sales are a necessary part of the business model primarily for companies that have their own brands, Council President of the Association noted by Krešimir Sočković
T
he Croatian leather processing industry employs over 10,000 staff, and is traditionally a work intensive activity. The highest concentration is situated in the north of Croatia in two counties, the f Varaždin and Međimurje. In 2015, 134 companies employing 10,411 workers achieved total revenues of €0.51 billion. Last year, exports increased 1.5% and imports decreased 2.8% over the year before. The majority of leather goods are exported to EU member countries as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Leather Processing Industries Association by the Croatian Chamber of Economy (CCE) held an elective assembly last week and unanimously re-elected Mario Lešina, CEO of Midal from Varaždin, as the Association’s Council President. Nada Zver, from Ivančica (Ivanec), Božidar Ledinko, from Galko (Mali Bukovec) and Božo Ljubić from Viviani (Rešetari) were elected as Vice-Presidents.
CO-OPERATION WITH THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY Technological development of footwear production has stagnated for several years, and it is now necessary to intensify co-operation between economic operators and the scientific community specifically, research/development institutes. Systematic innovation and new product design and sales are necessary business models primarily for companies that have their own brands, and the Association will support this direction in the future. Also, business internationalisation is another imperative since the local market is too small for larger product series, Mr Lešina announced in his speech concerning the Association’s future activities. This sector is burdened by the lack of workforce which exacerbates product displacement. Therefore, constant learning will be the Association’s priority, where an important role
Mario Lešina and Branka Prišlić
will be played by CIRAZ (CCE sector) which, in addition to other activities, is implementing two strategic EU policies: Strategic project for support of cluster competitiveness and Strategic project for the establishment of an innovation network for industry and thematic innovation platforms. During the Assembly, participants discussed the lack and unprofessionalism of the workforce, the lack of instruments for preventing brain drain, and also mentioned the problem of low salaries as well as the ‘noncorresponding’ kuna currency. They also brought attention to the difficulties related to the public procurement procedure as well as the constant disappearance of distribution channels for local product sales.
134 companies active in the leather processing industry in 2015
€
0,51 billion in total revenue in 2015
BUSINESS INTERNATIONALISATION IS AN IMPERATIVE SINCE OUR MARKET IS TOO SMALL, LEŠINA EVALUATES April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 13
STORY WITH A REASON NEW PASSENGER TERMINAL OPENS AT FRANJO TU
A NEW ERA FOR ZAG
Architecturally appealing, providing new functionality and a broad range of comm area of 65,000 m2 with a 5 million passenger capacity; the value of investment in
F
ollowing three years of construction of the new passenger terminal at Zagreb’s Franjo Tuđman Airport, a new era in the operation of this airport began on 21st March. The grand opening of the passenger terminal marks a significant breakthrough in the operation of the Airport, with the first Croatia Airlines flight from Zagreb to Dubrovnik scheduled for 28th March in accordance with the regular schedule, as stated during the recent visit paid by journalists. Zagreb International Airport was granted a 30-year concession of Franjo Tuđman Airport, following the signing of the concession agreement as
a public-private partnership with the Republic of Croatia on 5th December 2013. A strong international consortium of leading international and local companies covering various segments of management of airports and construction, ensures the synergy of know-how and international experience in airport management. The new infrastructure and increased capacity will enable the potential of the airport to be further exploited as a European business and tourism destination. Architecturally appealing, providing new functionality and a wide range of commercial opportunities for passengers, the new
A NEW SYMBOL FOR ZAGREB
2.8 million throughput of passengers in 2016 In 2016, Franjo Tuđman Airport saw 2.8 million passengers, an increase of 7% year-on-year. This is an over 20% increase in passenger numbers across the last there years. The new terminal is expected to be yet another identifiable symbol of Zagreb, as well as the entire country. The Croatian capital has seen double-digit growth in tourist arrivals and overnight stays for several consecutive years and it is important to stress that 40% of international tourists are not from within Europe.
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terminal covers an area of 65,000 m2, some five times larger compared with previously constructed terminals. Moreover, it has a 5 million passenger capacity, double that of previously constructed terminals.
FOCAL POINT During the opening ceremony, David Gabelica, member of the Management Board of Zagreb International Airport, highlighted that the history of the Zagreb-based Airport at its current venue began in 1962 as the construction of the old passenger terminal. “The investment in the first phase of construction of the new passenger terminal was €300 million. 1,100 parking spaces are provided by the new passenger terminal, as opposed to 680 next to the former terminal”, stressed Gabelica. He added that the new terminal also provides 30 check-in counters for both passengers and luggage, an upgrade compared with the previously available 23. There are 8 passenger boarding bridges that are now available providing better direct access for passengers from aircraft to terminal and vice versa. Further expansion of these is planned in order to reach 16, meaning that during the second phase of its development, the Airport will reach a total capacity of 8 million passengers. It is important to note the Airport Operations Centre (considered the
UĐMAN AIRPORT
REB AIRPORT
mercial opportunities for passengers, the new passenger terminal covers an n its construction was €300 million by Sanja Plješa focal point and heart of the Airport) Facts and figures is a monitoring and control centre on passenger termin the new for events both within and without al 2,000 tonnes of str the Airport complex, where specially uctural steel were used for the building, as trained co-ordinators can constantly well as over 75,00 of concrete, 5,000 0 m3 tonnes of reinforce address any security requirements ment, 250,000 m2 been paved, 800 wo has rkers were at the site on a daily basis regarding equipment and passengers. during the constru ction and 36,000 tes ts of both equipme and systems have According to Dragutin Škrlec, cont been conducted pri or to opening. ordinator at the Airport Operations Centre, there are also co-ordinators for burglary protection, as well as security maintenance co-ordinators who are ning, a comprehensive test of all processes, able to react instantly at any time. participation of volunteers through workgroups and finally the physical transfer of WELL-TRAINED EMPLOYEES all activities in terms of the system and All employees at the new passenger ter- equipment in the new terminal. minal have passed through highly demanMoreover, a further innovation provided ding training included the passing of seve- is an increase in the number of catering ral hundred tests within a special process facilities of which there are currently 11. named ORAT (Operational Readiness and Concerning both catering and commercial Airport Transfer). As has been noted, this facilities, Ana Penavić, Commercial Moniinternational process has been adapted to toring Manager at the airport emphasised Croatian circumstances, culture and environment, and has been adapted to meet the requirements of the airport. In order to be able to provide high quality services and fully meet passenger requirements, employees have passed seven phases of the ORAT process: familiarisation, where each employee was introduced to the new environment, followed by a functionality test, technical training, operational trai-
that the international company BTA will be operating the facilities over a 13-year period. Additionally, the company will be providing in-flight catering services. “BTA provides some of the existing, successfully proven concepts such as NeedStop, Cakes&Bakes and Brewmark. Todays passengers are provided with a wide range of bakery products, fresh pastry, cakes and various confectioneries. Moreover, passengers can relax at the Gastro bar that provides a large number of international premium beers, whereas at POM they will be provided healthy drinks”, noted Ana Penavić. She added that passengers will also be provided with local food specialties. In addition, in the commercial area of the passenger terminal, in addition to the promotion of international brands, passengers will be introduced to innovations provided by Croatian designers.
THERE ARE 8 PASSENGER BOARDING BRIDGES THAT WERE PREVIOUSLY NOT AVAILABLE AT THE OLD TERMINAL, PROVIDING BETTER DIRECT ACCESS FOR PASSENGERS FROM AIRCRAFT TO THE TERMINAL AND VICE VERSA. April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 15
INTERVIEW STJEPAN PEZO, PRESIDENT, MANAGEMENT BOARD, GALEB AND PR
THERE IS A FUTURE, AGAINST ALL ODDS The textile and clothing industry can certainly boost productivity, exports and employment. We have the potential to progress and become a partner industry to the government in its efforts to achieve accelerated economic and demographic recovery, as well as uniform development across the country by Jozo Vrdoljak
The salaries of the majority of employees is not much higher than unemployment benefits. Consequently, this sector is not appealing, since, in compliance with regulations, upon employment one loses unemployment benefit, whilst a person receiving unemployment benefit can make up the difference through seasonal work in tourism or agriculture.
S
tjepan Pezo, President of the Management Board of d Galeb, was unanimously elected President of the Association, during the recently held Electoral Assembly of the Textile and Clothing Industries Association of the Croatian Chamber of Economy. Jasminka Korotaj and Zoran Koščec were appointed as Vice-Presidents. A further 15 members of the Council of Textile and Clothing Industries Association at the CCE were also elected. Pezo pointed out that his position involves assuming a high level of responsibility. He sees the exploitation of the potential of the textile and clothing industries as a challenge, and is striving to provide assistance in the positioning of the Croatian Chamber of Economy as a focal point and a central institution for the Croatian economy. Privredni vjesnik spoke with him about the positioning and potential of the textile and clothing industries in Croatia, as well as on the programmes and objectives he is aiming to implement and meet during his four-year term of office, the partnership with the Croatian government, public procurement and the development of rural areas in Croatia. He also spoke about improving the entrepreneurial climate and the business activity of Galeb. What is the current situation in clothing and textile industry? The current situation is not as it should be, since this is a sector that shows overall losses. The number of people employed has been decreasing over the last almost 30 years, with
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the exception of a short-term halt in the trend. Slightly more than 17,000 workers are currently employed, around 13,000 of whom are currently involved in the clothing industry and 4,000 in textile industry. Around 700 companies are currently operating in this area, half of
THE CCE BRINGS TOGETHER ALL BUSINESS ENTITIES AND IT SHOULD THEREFORE BE PROVIDED WITH A HIGHER LEVEL OF PUBLIC AUTHORITY which perhaps only formally. Small and medium-sized, specialised family-owned companies account for half of those actively involved. What is classified as “textile” and what as “clothing” in the industry? To make it simple – the textile industry is involved in the production of intermediate goods, such as yarns, fabrics or related materials such as those for fabric labels, whilst the clothing industry transforms all those aspects into finished products.
RESIDENT OF THE TEXTILE AND CLOTHING INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION AT THE CCE
The Ministry of Defence is an example of best practices in the public procurement system management
April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 17
INTERVIEW How many clothing companies, similar to Galeb, are there who are involved both in textile production and of finished goods, hiring a larger number of employees? In addition to Galeb, there is Čatex which is primarily involved in the production of flat textiles for households, whilst Pounje has been operating with increasing success. Pounje is a company which has faced serious challenges and it is involved in the production of both knitwear and finished products. It is highly committed to success, irrespective of the fact that this sector is faced with labour shortages. Similarly, Galeb, has been investing substantially into knitwear production, since it provides value added, and our customers identify us based on the quality of the materials provided. What is your most serious concern? The salaries of the majority of employees in this sector are not particularly higher compared with unemployment payments. Consequently, this sector is not appealing, since, in compliance with regulations, upon employment one loses unemployment benefit, whilst a person receiving unemployment allowance can make up the difference in revenue through seasonal work in tourism or agriculture. How can producers compensate for the difference? Our proposal will focus on supporting the employment of marginally employable groups. These are primarily low or medium qualified female workers over 35 years old, and we are planning to make a proposal for them to be granted up to 65% of the average salary in the country. We are talking about female staff who account for 65% and often exceed this percentage amongst workers hired. Hence, we are talking about companies which cannot be attractive concerning the salaries provided and cannot easily attract a large number of new workers. The measures would be aimed at retaining such workers, and we will make a proposal for their salaries to be exempt from payment of mandatory contributions. Through this initiative, we will make a proposal for the state to compensate the difference between market categories and social categories concerning minimum salaries. There are several ways of loss-settlement for companies faced 18 | PVinternational | April 2017 | No 268
with social issues, which certainly includes those involved in textile industry. According to specific criteria, companies should be exempt from payment of some contributions in order for them to be able to settle the losses. We believe that in this way we would reduce labour costs by 10% and so greatly improve our competitiveness. Thereafter, due to improved competitiveness, we would soon provide more work, which would create new jobs, impacting unemployment and with a positive demographic effect. Are you suggesting that there is a future for the textile and clothing industries in Croatia? Certainly there is potential, against all odds. If compensation measures were introduced and provided the market was
EMPLOYER’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE STATE FOR THE SALARY OF A SEAMSTRESS IN CROATIA EXCEED THOSE OF THE OVERALL COSTS OF A SEAMSTRESS IN MACEDONIA regulated and competitiveness improved, we would soon be hiring 5,000 or 6,000 new workers. What is the major issue concerning the ineffectiveness of Croatian companies operating in this sector? Expensive sewing is the fundamental issue. Not because of high worker salaries, but because of excessive employer contributions. Employer’s contributions to the state for the salary of a seamstress in Croatia exceed those of the overall costs of a seamstress in Macedonia - and we are not that far from Macedonia. The capital used for expansion would soon be used for other purposes. For example, if a company like Galeb transferred its operations to Bosnia and Herzegovina,
its savings on labour costs would reach around €0.5 million. You stated this would positively impact on demographic renewal. Would you elaborate? We are witnessing the decline of our villages, whilst the towns in rural areas are simultaneously becoming villages. In such places a woman’s salary standing around €400 would make a difference. When a husband’s salary is added, the family is provided with sufficient funds for living. Would you say you are an optimist concerning the future? The textile and clothing industries can certainly boost productivity, exports and employment. We have the potential to progress and become a partner industry to the government in its efforts to achieve accelerated economic and demographic recovery, as well as a uniform development across the country. Our objective is sustainable development. We have already prepared the projects that will contribute considerably to the stabilisation of this sector, yet this implies providing measures for the sustainability of the sector. What other projects are included in your programme? We have projects focused on innovation and market expansion. The project of standardised dress code policy in Croatian schools is a highly important project for children, parents, as well as our sector. Through the enactment of the standardised dress code policy for 450,000 pupils, Croatian companies are provided work worth from €66 million to €0.13 billion year-on-year. A large number of diverse professions would be involved in the creation of a Croatian national brand. In addition, even children would be involved, as well as creative industries, and this would simultaneously simplify parents’ lives. We are currently in the phase of a pilot project, since we have been co-operating with five or six schools, and our specific objective is to implement the project during the academic year 2019/2020. We have been given support by the scientific community, the creative industries and a broad range of institutions. According to the survey conducted, this project is supported by between 85% and 95% of those who have
not joined thus far. Should the project be implemented, it would involve several thousand people, primarily in rural areas. We also have projects linked with ecology and recycling. Moreover, there is a project on smart clothing which is compatible with the guidelines provided by the umbrella organisation of textile and apparel industry at the EU level - Euratex, whose fully-fledged member is also Clothing Industries Association at the CCE. Are you satisfied with the co-operation with the Ministry of Defence? The Ministry of Defence is an example of best practices in public procurement system management. It is working on preparations conscientiously and responsibly, it conducts a comprehensive market analysis, as well as technical consultations, using all the tools available in public procurement for the purposes of the tender, in order to focus the implementation of work on those companies which are both technically and technologically qualified and capable of performing it. Finally, there is the issue of pricing. It normally signs longer term contracts with a duration of several years. The dynamics are defined and deadlines established, and hence everything is specified. In the case where mandatory military service is introduced, this could also positively impact on the Croatian textile and clothing industry. When will the first initiatives be launched? Very soon. Meetings are about to be held with several ministries, organised by the Industry Sector at the CCE, addressing the issue of compensation measures in the textile and clothing industries. We
will be discussing with state secretaries about the potential implementation of measures that we will propose to the government. Furthermore, we will be talking with the Ministry of the Interior about an improvement in the public procurement system which we would like to be on a par with the system currently implemented at the Ministry of Defence. Some ten days ago, following the Croatian-Ukrainian Economic Forum, meetings and discussions were held among businessmen from both countries addressing these issues. Croatian producers involved in the defence industry have established contact with the Ministry of Defence for Ukraine and we are expecting to co-operate. Moreover, the Ukrainian delegation headed by the Minister of Defence has announced a visit to the ASDA Fair. We would be delighted to co-operate with the Ukrainian military
2016 a good business year for Galeb What was 2016 like for Galeb? Concerning overall activities, it was a good year. We recorded around 15% rise in sales revenue. Moreover, we have shown growth both in the textile sector and in tourism. We are expecting to see the end of the year with revenue of €10 million. During the last several years we have seen continuous growth. Four years ago, we had revenue of €7.5 million, now we have generated revenue of €10 million. We will also see profits slightly above €0.13 million. The value of investment into technology is €1million and so we will be able to use flat-bed knitting technology. We are constantly implementing investment, since competitiveness is imperative.
which has decided to raise the standard to keep abreast with the western countries. The Ukrainian market has ample potential and Galeb is open for co-operation even concerning joint-venture projects. Do you have any further plans? My plan and programme also includes operational empowerment and a strengthening of the role of the Croatian Chamber of Economy. The CCE brings together all business entities and it should thus be provided with a higher level of public authority. Tomislav Radoš, Vice-President of the CCE shares my stance. Empowerment of the CCE is required in relation to the government and, within existing legislation, a higher level of operational involvement of the CCE in various processes concerning the economy needs to be ensured. There is a broad range of issues that need to be addressed. Hence, the Act on Financial Operations and Pre-Bankruptcy Settlement addresses the issue of payment deadlines and exemptions from deadlines. It also states that deadlines are defined by practices, yet the practices have not been defined. The CCE could strive to do that through a new Ordinance perhaps. There are many opportunities to increase the scope of work and the effectiveness of the CCE. Fina (the Financial Agency) also needs to increase its activities and focus on debtors and companies facing balance sheet problems using all available tools. April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 19
PVI ANALYSIS TEXTILE INDUSTRY
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SOME SURVIVING, SOME ALREADY BANKRUPT During the period 2005 to 2015, both the number of those employed in the textile industry and the level of investment implemented halved. In addition, the number of entrepreneurs involved also decreased. Nevertheless, 2015 saw 256 entrepreneurs involved, of whom 69.9% operated profitably and 30.1% generated losses by Ilijana Grgić
D
uring the decade 2005 to 2015, the number of employees hired in the textile industry, as well as the level of investment implemented halved, due to the fact that some companies were wound up, and a large number of them reduced staffing levels, according to an analysis conducted by the Financial Agency (Fina). During the observation period the number of entrepreneurs involved in textile production was the highest in 2005, at 262, but over a period of only 5 years, to 2010, the numbers involved in textile production dropped to 239, only to see a slight increase yet again in 2015, reaching 256. According to the location of the company’s headquarters, in 2015 the largest concentration of entrepreneurs involved in textile production was in the Zagreb area, (61 entrepreneurs), followed by Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (25) and Split-Dalmatia County (22 headquartered entrepreneurs). The fewest entrepreneurs, (1), was r in Koprivnica-Križevci County, Lika-Senj County and Požega-Slavonija County. Krapina-Zagorje County generating revenue of €82.5 million was the leading county of the textile industry in 2015.
NUMBER OF STAFF FALLS ALMOST 60% Following a comparison between the number of employees hired by entrepreneurs involved
IN 2015, ACCORDING TO THE LOCATION OF COMPANY HEADQUARTERS, THE HIGHEST CONCENTRATION OF ENTREPRENEURS WAS IN THE ZAGREB AREA in textile production during the period 2005 and 2015, the number of employees in 2015 fell by 4,359 or 57.3% in relation to 2005. Thus, whilst the number of employees in the textile industry in 2005 was 7,604, in 2015 it stood at 3,245. In its analysis Fina pointed out that this was because over the last decade, several large companies had been wound up, such April 2017 | No 268 | PVinternational | 21
PVI ANALYSIS The basic financial results of company activity in textile production – an overview 2005- 2010- 2015 (amounts expressed in ‘000 kuna, average salary expressed in kuna) Description
Activity section 13 – current period from the annual financial report
Number of entrepreneurs Number of profit-makers Number of loss-makers Number of employees Total revenue Total expenditure Profit before tax Loss before tax Income tax Profit for the period Loss for the period Consolidated financial results – profit (+) or loss (-) for the period Exports Imports Balance of trade (exports minus imports) Investment in new long-term assets Average monthly nett salary per employee
2005 262 181 81 7,604 1,800,344 1,789,529 105,175 94,361 8,244 96,956 94,386
2010 239 152 87 4,039 1,376,312 1,394,553 72,157 90,398 5,998 66,223 90,463
2015 256 179 77 3,245 1,522,478 1,391,418 148,855 17,796 11,788 137,055 17,783
2,570
-24,240
119,272
796,076 571,805 224,271 122,646 2,580
565,625 468,740 96,885 68,751 3,160
714,587 617,659 96,927 67,236 3,506
Number of employees 229 361 336 227 344 210 78 479 337 287 2,888 7,604
Profit or loss for the period 37,934 5,076 1,973 6,741 -1,256 5,187 4,211 -13,777 464 102 46,654 2,570
Top 10 entrepreneurs according to total revenue generated in 2005 Rank Name of entrepreneur Venue 1 TUBLA TEKSTIL d.o.o. Čakovec 2 PREVENT ZLATAR d.o.o. Zlatar 3 JADRAN d.d. Zagreb 4 TKZ d.o.o. Zagreb 5 MTČ Tvornica čarapa d.d. Čakovec Čakovec 6 KELTEKS d.o.o. Karlovac 7 NIRD d.o.o. Kaštel L. 8 ČATEKS d.d. Čakovec 9 REGENERACIJA d.d. Zabok 10 LOLA RIBAR d.d. Karlovac Total top 10 entrepreneurs in textile production activity Total 262 entrepreneurs in textile production activity
Total revenue 154,064 123,020 113,281 83,177 76,575 74,693 72,236 70,844 69,254 58,294 895,436 1,800,344
Top 10 entrepreneurs according to total revenue generated in 2010 Rank Name of entrepreneur Venue 1 ČATEKS d.d. Čakovec 2 PREVENT ZLATAR d.o.o. Zlatar 3 PREDIONICA KLANJEC d.o.o. Klanjec 4 T7 VIS d.o.o. Varaždin 5 KELTEKS d.o.o. Karlovac 6 BULGARI FILATI d.o.o. Oroslavje 7 REGENERACIJA d.d. Zabok 8 NIRD d.o.o. Kaštel L. 9 LOLA RIBAR d.d. Zagreb 10 MEDIA COMMERCE d.o.o. Zagreb Total top 10 entrepreneurs in textile production activity Total 239 entrepreneurs in textile production activity
Total revenue 135,494 105,927 98,094 91,471 67,078 66,955 60,771 57,910 46,678 39,134 769,512 1,376,312
Number of employees 366 410 106 109 119 231 199 86 133 64 1,823 4,039
Profit or loss for the period -2,147 -7,605 7,694 24,019 413 12,054 -4,057 5,468 98 110 36,049 -24,240
Top 10 entrepreneurs according to total revenue generated in 2015 Rank 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Name of entrepreneur Venue AQUAFILCRO d.o.o. (prije BULGARI FILATI) Oroslavje KELTEKS d.o.o. Karlovac ČATEKS d.d. Čakovec REGENERACIJA d.o.o. Zabok NIRD d.o.o. Kaštel Lukšić Pamučna industrija Duga Resa d.d. u 6. Duga Resa stečaju 7. LOLA RIBAR d.d. Zagreb 8. PREDIONICA KLANJEC d.o.o. Klanjec 9. TVORNICA MREŽA I AMBALAŽE d.o.o. Tkon 10. AUTOMONT BELINA, vl. Božidar Belin Krapinske T. Total top 10 entrepreneurs in textile production activity Total 256 entrepreneurs in textile production activity Source: Fina
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Total revenue 311,554 110,330 94,579 67,802 61,327
Number of employees Profit or loss for the period 256 4,740 130 10,520 312 2,399 194 972 61 10,525
60,151
1
57,272
59,435 57,149 54,664 49,573 926,564 1,522,478
113 98 75 51 1,291 3,245
5,075 4,707 2,611 3,565 102,386 119,272
as the Duga Resa Cotton Industry, whilst trends within companies that continued operating was to reduce the number of employees. By the end of 1980’s, as one of the large textile factories Duga Resa Textile Industry, employed 4,500 workers, which exceeds the number of those currently employed in the entire textile sector. In 2015, the company generated revenue of €8 million even though employing just one person, and the largest profit for the period in textile production of €7.64 million. The Commercial Court in Zagreb, removed the company entry from the court register in December 2015.
2015 THE BEST YEAR ON RECORD FOR PROFITABILITY In 2005, average revenue per employee was €0.9 million, compared with the 2010 level of €0.75 million, and 2015 of €0.8 million. Entrepreneurs who were involved in textile production showed profits of €18.25 million in 2015, 107% up compared with 2010 and a 41.4% over 2005. Losses for the period were highest in 2005 at €12.6 million, up 430.8% over 2015. Entrepreneurs operated negatively in 2010, showing losses of €3.2 million. 256 entrepreneurs operated in this sector in 2015, of whom 69.9% were profitable, as opposed to 30.1% who showed negative results. 262 entrepreneurs operated in 2005, the highest number, with 69.1% of them generating profits, and 30.9% making losses for the period. Entrepreneurs in textile production, saw the end of the 2015 business year with nett profits of €15.9 million. Of 256 entrepre-
neurs, 179 of them operated positively, with 77 showing losses. The top lossmaker of 2015, with a loss of €0.95 million was Vuteks Feniks, which was under bankruptcy proceedings.
DRASTIC DROP IN INVESTMENT In 2005, the value of investment in new long-term assets reached €16.3 million but fell to €8.96 million in 2015. The biggest investor in 2005 was Ytres, since the value of investment implemented in new long-term assets was €6.6 million, whilst in 2015 the leading company was Kelteks, implementing investment of €2.6 million. It is also important to note that Ytres was, in the meantime, reclassified in another activity segment, having become involved in clothing production. Perhaps a rise in the average monthly salary may be considered good news. In 2015, the average monthly salary was €467, an increase of 35.9% compared with 2005. Nevertheless, that salary (€467) was the average salary 30.1% lower than that in the processing industry and by an identical percentage lower in relation to the average monthly nett salary paid by entrepreneurs in Croatia.
HOW COMPANIES STAND A comparison of three rankings of entrepreneurs, according to total generated revenue in 2005, 2010 and 2015, showed that five companies appeared on all the three lists - Čateks, Kelteks, Regeneracija, NIRD and Lola Ribar. Similarly, comparing the information from the rankings of entrepreneurs
across 2005, 2010 and 2015, according to the same criterion, it was evident that the top 10 companies in 2015 generated the highest total revenue of €123.5 million; 2005 saw the highest total revenue of the entire segment of textile production of €0.25 billion. In 2005, the highest revenue (€20.5 million) and the highest profit (€59 million), was generated by the Čakovec-based Tubla tekstil, employing 229 staff. The top loss-maker in 2005 was Pamučna predionica Glina (Glina Cotton Mills) under bankruptcy proceedings, with a loss of €3.8 million, over which the bankruptcy proceedings were opened on 13th November 2003 and concluded on 29th September 2006. Subsequently, the Commercial Court in Sisak removed the company entry from the court register. The top profit–maker of 2010 was the Varaždin-based T7 VIS, with profits of €3.2 million, whilst Čateks ranked first of the most successful entrepreneurs according to total revenue generated (€18 million). The biggest lossmaker was Duga Resa Cotton Industry, (€6 million). This is the main factor why entrepreneurs involved in textile production in 2010 showed losses for the period of €3.2 million. The Oroslavje-based AquafilCRO, which operated under the name Bulgari Filati until May 2013, was the best profit-maker in 2015 (€41.5 million), equating to 20.5% of the total revenue of all 256 entrepreneurs operating at the time. The company generated a profit for the period of €0.6 million, employed 256 workers who received an average monthly nett salary of €448.
Once great, now defunct Vesna, Jadran, TKZ Amongst entrepreneurs involved in textile production, in addition to those already mentioned, there are several more which were once significant, yet are currently about to be wound up or have already ceased operating. This is a litany of once fine names - such as Vesna Trikotaža (Vesna Cotton Jersey) under bankruptcy proceedings. Moreover, in the case of Jadran, a successful
hosiery factory, the pre-bankruptcy settlement procedure was initiated on 29thMay 2015, whilst, following a decision reached by the Commercial Court in Zagreb, on 20th February 2017, the proposal for the pre-bankruptcy settlement agreement was not accepted. In addition, the Zagreb-based TKZ under bankruptcy proceedings, was removed from the court register on 16th May
2013, whereas on 19th May 2014 the Commercial Court in Rijeka, reached a decision on the opening of the bankruptcy proceedings over a debtor Arena Modna kuća from Pula. On 19th October 2015 the Commercial Court in Zagreb opened and simultaneously also concluded the bankruptcy proceedings over the Zlatar-based Prevent Zlatar, which was under bankruptcy proceedings.
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PROWEIN - THE LARGEST WINE FAIR IN THE WORLD
Croatian wine presented to the world The Fair is also extremely important for future building of the image of Croatian wines Vina Croatia - Vina Mosaica and the brand of Croatia, highlighted Igor Barbarić of the CCE
O
rganised by the Association of Wine Makers by the Croatian Chamber of Economy, 13 Croatian wineries presented their wines at the International Trade Fair for Wines and Spirits ProWein 2017, recently held in Dusseldorf. The CCE presented the following companies Badel 1862, Vina Belje, Kutjevo, Zlatan otok, Lagradi, Dingač Skaramuća, Feravino, Kraljevski vinogradi, Kronos, Krauthaker, Vina Terra madre, Veralda and Apimel. The Wineries Jako vino and Rizman presented themselves independently. The Fair is very important for the Croatian wine industry, since it is an opportunity to present themselves to a professional audience in Germany and the rest of the world. It is also extremely important for future building of the image of Croatian wines Vina Croatia - Vina Mosaica and the brand of Croatia, without which it would be difficult to position Croatian wines in the world. The Fair is a place where wine producers can talk freely with potential buyers about wine sales across the EU and other demanding world markets, such as Russia, the
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USA, Canada, China and Japan, highlighted Secretary of the Association of Wine Makers by the CCE, Igor Barbarić. Prowein is the place globally to present wines. Dusseldorf gathers all of the most important world producers, traders and wine distributors. “During the three days, we anticipate a large number of professional visitors and buyers looking mainly for special and authentic wines, and graševina of Vina Belje is certainly one. Besides graševina we will also present remarkable red wines from Podunavlje that we export to many markets”, Marketing and Tourism Manager with Belje Ljiljana Vajda Mlinaček said.
PLACE TO FIND NEW CONTACTS “Feravino is already present on the German Market, but this Fair is the most significant place to find new business contacts from all over the world. In just two days we managed to come into contact with potential partners, not only from Germany, but also from other markets, such as Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland and Japan. The greatest interest was expressed for the Slavonian graševina and frankovka Feričanci of the Dika
and Miraz line. We are convinced that ProWein presents a great opportunity for the Croatian wine makers to increase their export to Germany and the world”, Sales and Marketing Manager of Feravino Luka Vrga noted. Furthermore, last year Croatia exported to Germany €1.8 million of wine and it is our second biggest export market after Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the same period we imported from Germany €1.92 million worth of wine, which makes Germany the fourth import market. This year’s Prowein Fair presented over 6,300 exhibitors from 60 countries, and this event is the leader in presenting new trends and products. (V.A.)
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