Crafting Success: From Estonia to Asia
In the world of brewing brilliance, there's nothing quite like the journey from your local stomping ground to the global stage. For the team at TOHI Distillery, a crafty crew brewing artisanal delights in Estonia, it's been a wild ride fueled by ambition, creativity, and a generous splash of Nordic charm.
Their brews are making waves primarily in Estonia, with a dash finding its way to curious sippers in Germany, Sweden, France, Switzerland, Latvia, and even China. But these brewers have set their sights higher.
"We're eyeing a global export share of around 70% of our production," shares the Master Distiller Priit Palk. "To make it happen, we're stepping up our presence at trade shows, showcasing our goods, and fostering new partnerships. It's about nurturing our current markets while exploring fresh opportunities."
Japan is one such opportunity, and as they gear up for Foodex, they're excited about the Japanese appreciation for quality and uniqueness.
"Japan is a natural fit for us because they value authenticity – and that's exactly what we're all about," he notes.
Amidst a sea of beverage options, TOHI Distillery believes their Nordic flavors, like their unique cloudberry and aronia berry distilled gins, will stand out in Asia and beyond.
"Our drinks have a distinctive flair that resonates with discerning palates," Priit Palk affirms.
Their foray into Asian markets stems from the region's growing interest in European tastes. "As Asia looks to Europe for inspiration, we're reciprocating the interest," he explains.
But Japan is just the beginning. They're poised for even greater opportunities with tentative plans to expand into China and India.
They also highlight the support from Enterprise Estonia (EAS), who have helped with networking on foreign markets, creating marketing materials, and organizing the participation of international trades and fairs.
In preparation for Foodex in Japan, they're optimistic about forging meaningful connections. They hope to meet partners who share their vision and are eager to introduce their beverages to new audiences.
As they embark on their Asian odyssey, they carry the spirit of Estonia with them, ready to share their craft with the world. Cheers to the journey ahead.