Investment & Fund Management

Mani Foods, a family business established in 1990 and based in Kalamata, Greece, specializes in the production, packaging, and export of olives, olive oil, and specialty foods. The company has experienced significant growth, particularly after relocating to new facilities in 2007, which enabled them to enhance their export activities to over 20 countries across five continents. A notable achievement for Mani Foods was winning a gold medal for their premium quality extra virgin olive oil at an international competition in Japan in 2013.

In 2016, Mani Foods faced a pivotal challenge when they secured orders from a large American retailer, necessitating the acquisition of new machinery to meet the increased demand and customized requests. This demand surge prompted the company to double its production capacity. To finance this expansion, Demie Zygouri, a co-owner, sought assistance from the National Bank of Greece, which provided a loan backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF) under the EU’s Investment Plan for Europe. This financial support was crucial for Mani Foods to expand their facilities and purchase the necessary equipment.

As a result of this investment, Mani Foods significantly increased its workforce, growing from 21 to nearly 50 employees. The company is now focused on further expanding its presence in the U.S. market while maintaining its commitment to high-quality products. This case exemplifies how targeted financial support can enable small businesses to scale operations and enhance their market reach.