Umai Holding to create leading food retail platform in Central Asia with Vkusnaya Korzinka acquisition

Umai Holding, a retail group backed by Visor International, announced its agreement to acquire Vkusnaya Korzinka, a prominent food retailer in southern Kazakhstan. The deal, which is subject to regulatory approval from Kazakhstan's antimonopoly authority, marks a significant step in Umai's strategy to establish a leading modern food retail platform in Central Asia through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

Currently operating as Umai Group in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan since its founding in 2001, Umai has achieved considerable growth. The acquisition of Vkusnaya Korzinka, which manages 49 supermarkets primarily in Taraz and other southern Kazakh cities, will significantly expand Umai's footprint. Upon completion, the combined entity will operate more than 220 stores across Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, integrating Umai Group's multi-format business with Vkusnaya Korzinka's established regional network and brand recognition.

Umai intends to leverage its investment to enhance the product selection available to consumers in both nations. The company also aims to offer more attractive terms through competitive pricing, promotions, and special offers. This strategic move is expected to substantially broaden Umai's market reach and lay the groundwork for sustained long-term growth within the Central Asian region. Kazakhstan, as the region's largest economy with a high GDP per capita and a population exceeding 20 million, presents a key market, while Kyrgyzstan also offers significant potential for development.

Vkusnaya Korzinka holds a strong position in southern Kazakhstan, particularly in Taraz, due to its well-known local brand, extensive store network, and long-standing relationships with customers, employees, and suppliers. Umai plans to collaborate closely with Vkusnaya Korzinka's current management team, combining their local expertise with Umai's experience in managing and scaling large, multi-format retail businesses. This integration will provide Vkusnaya Korzinka access to Umai's operational expertise, investment capabilities, and the regional experience of its shareholder, Visor International.