Expertise in Action: Our Selected Projects
agriculture and marketing
>> PROJECT :
Privatisation of the Food Wholesale and Retail Distribution System in Yaroslavl
- Country - Russian Federation
- Donor - Tacis
- Duration - 15 months
- Status - completed
The project operated under the TACIS programme of the EU with the primary objective of facilitating the privatization of the food distribution sector. It aimed to provide immediate and medium-term practical assistance in establishing a new, market-oriented food wholesale and retail system in the Yaroslavl region, with a focus on enhancing management capabilities and technical facilities in these sectors.

A comprehensive study was conducted to assess the situation on the producers‘ side, as well as at the wholesale and retail levels, to understand consumer demand and identify key challenges in these areas. Based on the findings, short, medium, and long-term strategies were developed to address technical, financial, and operational management bottlenecks. These strategies were implemented through participatory training courses and the establishment of ‚demonstration units.‘
The project primarily sought technically viable and financially feasible methods to restructure the food distribution sector. The methodology employed was highly participatory, involving workshops and training courses tailored to the needs of various stakeholders. Recommendations for public administration and private entrepreneurs were formulated based on the experiences gained from operating the ‚demonstration units,‘ aimed at facilitating the privatization process of the food distribution sector.
Key results of the project included:
- Analysis of the economic, political, and physical conditions of the local retail and wholesale system.
- Policy advice provided to administration and decision-makers regarding the new market structure, establishment of wholesale markets, and other core issues.
- Recommendations made on accounting systems and taxation.
- Establishment of four retail shops as demonstration units, designed according to western standards.
- Conducting seminars and training sessions for shop staff, administrative personnel, and key personnel involved in the project

Other Projects in Agriculture and Marketing
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- Animal Health and Livestock Marketing Project, Mongolia
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- Support to Fruit and Vegetables Marketing Structures in Bulgaria
- Establishment of Collection and Distribution Network, Mongolia