Almost every yard in Troyan and the neat villages around it, preserves the family thread of several generations, as the connection with the artisanal past and the invisible force, capable of turning the pottery wheel even today. The region has a special place among the riches of the Bulgarian cultural heritage, and its special connection with crafts has not passed by a single house, the guardian of family memories and collective traditions.
The merits of the Troyan region, however, are not only associated with the flourishing craftsmanship, but also with the picturesque nature, the culinary features of the region and local production, which even today has found a reflection of its values and philosophy in some modern and contemporary producers. In the future, we will try to introduce you not only to the good examples from the region, but also from all over the country.
We talk about “Kondov Ecoproduction”, brand MMELLOW and the impressive dairy assortment that the company exports to Germany, North America, Australia, and beyond. We fell in love with the taste, we loved them for their attitude, and with immense gratitude we look back on the first time we visited the dairy and saw how it all happens.
The history of the Troyan region through the prism of animal husbandry and cheesemaking is inextricably linked to the traditional livelihood of the local population, the natural features of the Balkan Mountains and the deeply rooted cultural practices in the region.
In a place with such majestic nature, green forests and fresh mountain meadows, flocks of sheep and goats can be seen on the slopes. MMELLOW's dairy products include goat cream cheese, thick goat cream cheese, grilled cheese, gouda, white brined sheep cheese and cow's milk yellow cheese, produced since 1991.
“Over three decades later, since the birth of the idea of boutique production of traditional Bulgarian dairy products, for us the “path to success” is built on three solid foundations: uncompromising quality, flexibility and openness to both new ideas and constructive criticism, and a constant focus on minimizing risks. This philosophy requires a strong work ethic and a culture of trust – from the farmer to the end customer. We work in long-term partnership with everyone in the chain: suppliers, employees, control bodies, partners and distributors,” he tells us. Yancho Kondov.
С Yancho Kondov we meet when we first visit the dairy in the village of Staro Selo. In a human and inspiring conversation, he tells us about the path from the farm to the finished product, in which the first step – the processor – is key:
“The speed of delivery and the control of the parameters of raw milk are crucial. In production, the raw material and products undergo strict control before, during and after each step of the process. And in the final phase – shipping and distribution – we work with established partners in different markets who know the local consumption culture and have strong logistics capabilities. Thus, today our products reach over 20 countries on 4 continents.”
You are mainly oriented towards the foreign market. Which countries are most interested in Bulgarian dairy products and flavors?
True white brine cheese knows no borders. Historically, the strongest markets for it have been Germany, North America, Australia and the Middle East. The diversity in our portfolio – from traditional Bulgarian products to Western European specialties – allows us to gain interest in countries such as France, the Netherlands and Italy.
How has the market in this segment developed over the years and what place is there on the stands for Bulgarian products?
Competition in the sector is fierce and drives us to constantly improve production efficiency. The satisfaction comes from being recognized as an emblem of high quality and authenticity on the international stage - a recognition that opens the doors to new opportunities.
How do you maintain the authenticity of Bulgarian taste with such diverse international demand and supply?
We believe that authentic taste and consistency in standards are the surest recipe for sustainable growth. In times when the temptation to compromise is great, our "conservatism" in recipes and execution becomes our best advertisement.
Do you implement innovations in production – technologies, sustainable practices?
Technological progress is the engine of any modern production. For us, every innovation must be economically justified and improve the sustainability of the business. This includes systems for continuous analysis of technological, operational and financial data, process automation and solutions for saving water, energy and fuel.
In the big topic of ESG and the need to be eco-efficient and environmentally friendly, have you taken steps to reduce the environmental footprint of production?
Since our establishment over three decades ago, we have carried in our name the idea of clean and "eco" production. We were pioneers in organic certified dairy products in Bulgaria - a guarantee of ethical treatment of animals and the environment. Today, we invest in renewable energy, our own wastewater treatment system and pay great attention to packaging materials - these are some of the more visible initiatives towards a cleaner industry.
What do you have planned for the future development of the company?
The global trend towards clean, nutritious food gives us confidence in the potential for long-term growth. The increasingly conscious modern consumer associates complete nutrition with health and even with their social status. Our plans include expanding production capacity, new levels of automation and developing entirely new product categories and formats.
As a manufacturer that adheres to the traditions and experience that generations have accumulated, Mandra Kondov has become not only a good brand, but also a good example.
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Read more about their history and where to try the cheese on their website:
