Healthy Bars, Bulgaria’s leading protein bar producer, is set to expand its operations and sustainability efforts, thanks to a strategic partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and UniCredit Bulbank.
This collaboration involves a €14.8 million senior secured loan from UniCredit Bulbank, partially guaranteed by the EBRD through an unfunded risk participation agreement. The EBRD’s guarantee will cover up to €5 million of the loan, paving the way for a new green production facility and eco-friendly equipment.
The planned investment will enable Healthy Bars to increase its production capacity threefold while minimizing its environmental impact. The construction of the energy-efficient facility is part of the company’s broader commitment to sustainability and innovation.
EBRD and EU Support Sustainable Practices
The EBRD is also bolstering Healthy Bars’ sustainability initiatives through its Green Innovation Programme, supported by EU Horizon 2020 funding. This includes a €0.9 million grant to facilitate the adoption of advanced climate technologies, along with a technical cooperation grant of up to €75,000.
These funds will help Healthy Bars develop a comprehensive sustainability and climate strategy. Key activities include conducting cost-benefit analyses of potential green projects, identifying emission sources, and benchmarking the company’s efforts against industry standards.
Additionally, the company will receive advisory services through the EU-supported Advice for Small Businesses programme. These services aim to enhance organizational culture and improve employee engagement, aligning with Healthy Bars’ focus on long-term growth and sustainability.
“A Model for Green Innovation in SMEs”
Manuela Naessl, the EBRD’s Head of Bulgaria, emphasized the significance of supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting green technologies.
“Healthy Bars is an excellent example of how SMEs can lead the way in sustainability and innovation. Our blended concessional finance model enables businesses to invest in advanced, environmentally friendly technologies,” Naessl said.
The EBRD’s Green Innovation Programme, active in Bulgaria, Latvia, and Romania, promotes green technologies and business models that address climate change, pollution, and the circular economy.
A Rapidly Growing Bulgarian Success Story
Founded in 2015, Healthy Bars began as a local enterprise specializing in protein bars for active lifestyles.
Over the years, it has expanded its footprint internationally, developing private-label products for partners across the EU, the Middle East, and southeastern Europe. Sustainability and innovation have been central to the company’s evolution.
The new facility and eco-friendly equipment will reinforce Healthy Bars’ commitment to producing high-quality, sustainable products for its growing customer base.
By leveraging advanced climate technologies, the company is poised to meet increasing market demands while contributing to global sustainability goals.
This investment represents a milestone in the company’s journey from a local Bulgarian business to an international leader in its field.
Healthy Bars’ partnership with the EBRD and UniCredit Bulbank demonstrates how strategic collaborations can drive growth and innovation while addressing pressing environmental challenges.