With announced investments exceeding EUR 100 million and planned capacity expansion, SFS Paraćin, part of Vaider Group, is positioning itself as a regional leader in glass packaging production

Paraćin, April 22, 2026 – Vaider Srpska Fabrika Stakla (VSFS), part of the international Vaider Group, has officially inaugurated its modernized production facilities, marking a new phase in the development of Serbia’s glass industry. This investment is part of a broader cycle worth over EUR 100 million, aimed at advancing technology, increasing production, and strengthening export potential.

The opening ceremony was attended by the President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, owner of the Vaider SFS Igor Lah, CEO of Vaider Group Kristijan Fröba, as well as Swiss Ambassador Ann Lugon-Moulin, Slovenian Ambassador Slobodan Šešum, Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka Đedović Handanović, Srbijagas Director Dušan Bajatović, Mayor of Paraćin Vladimir Milićević, and representatives of the Development Agency of Serbia.

With more than 115 years of tradition in Paraćin and backed by the group’s global heritage, the factory commissioned a new furnace in 2024 with a capacity of 270 tons per day, representing the first phase of a EUR 50 million investment. Thanks to modern equipment and the expertise of its workforce, VSFS has, in less than a year, placed its products on markets in 20 countries across the region and Europe.

The company produces high-quality glass packaging for the food industry, in full compliance with all food safety standards. It places particular emphasis on upgrading existing technologies, introducing innovative production processes, ensuring sustainable and energy-efficient manufacturing, and building long-term partnerships with customers.

Addressing attendees, CEO Kristijan Fröba stated that the company is actively working on improving product quality to ensure competitiveness in the EU premium market, emphasizing that Serbia remains its key market and operational base for future growth.

He noted that the Paraćin glassworks has gone through many phases over more than a century, but that its continuity has been sustained by its people, their expertise, and dedication to the craft.

Owner of the Vaider SFS Igor Lah emphasized that, building on strong industrial foundations and a long tradition, the factory has the potential to become a major and respected industrial hub in Serbia.

“It is an honor to be here today at such an important moment for our company and everyone who contributed to this project. This reflects trust, perseverance, and a clear commitment to investing in the future,” Lah said.

Ambassador of Slovenia to Serbia Slobodan Šešum highlighted that, although the investment is formally Swiss, it also carries a strong imprint of Slovenian entrepreneurship and innovation, noting that more than 1,000 Slovenian companies operate in Serbia.

Swiss Ambassador Ann Lugon-Moulin pointed to the significance of the 110th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, noting that Switzerland is among the leading investors in Serbia, with over 600 companies operating across various sectors, and that bilateral relations are characterized by long-standing trust, shared values, and strong economic cooperation.

President Aleksandar Vučić recalled that glass production in Serbia dates back to 1846, stating that the country now has an opportunity to revive this important industrial sector and restore its competitiveness. He also announced concrete government support, including more favorable energy prices and subsidies for modernization.

Photo: TANJUG / AMIR HAMZAGIĆ

Vaider Group – A Trusted Global Partner

Vaider Group, headquartered in Lucerne, Switzerland, is one of the most dynamic European business groups in the premium glass packaging industry. With a tradition spanning 160 years, the group is recognized for its quality, reliability, and innovation.

Its portfolio includes companies such as Steklarna Hrastnik, as well as the Paraćin factory, further strengthening Vaider’s presence in Southeast Europe. Vaider Group acquired the Srpska Fabrika Stakla in Paraćin at the end of 2022.

About Vaider SFS

Vaider SFS employs around 270 people in Serbia and generated approximately EUR 14.2 million in revenue in 2024.

Its diverse product portfolio includes glass bottles for wine, spirits, water, soft drinks, and various food products. Vaider SFS offers a full range of services, covering all stages from concept and design to development and production.

As part of an international glass packaging platform, VSFS combines tradition, modern technology, and employee expertise to meet the needs of both domestic and international markets.