Sunfly, an Estonian company, has embarked on a mission to radically change the food industry with its innovative plant-based products derived from sunflower seeds. The company´s market expansion plans are ambitious, explained the co-founder of the company, Dmitri Eivin.

The idea for Sunfly stemmed from a desire to maximise the potential of sunflower seeds primarily used to produce oil and animal feed. Recognising the untapped potential for creating nutritious food products from sunflower seeds, Sunfly was founded in August 2020.

Moreover, the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives in the food sector in 2020 further fueled their motivation to introduce sustainable and protein-rich sunflower seed butter to the market.

The company is targeting several new markets

Sunfly initially focused on the Estonian market. The company´s products have quickly gained traction, with distribution in over 100 stores (Coop, Kaubamaja, Selver, Grossi) across Estonia.

“We expect to have 90% export sales after a few years. We have an experienced team that knows how to do it.”
Dmitri Eivin, CEO and co-founder of Sunfly

Soon, Sunfly aims to expand its footprint globally. The company plans to enter markets in France and Portugal this April and May. After that, hopefully during 2024, they want to open the UAE market´s door. UK market entry happened this month, as Sunfly launched in the iconic Selfridges store on the 15th of April.

By strategically positioning themselves in key regions, Sunfly anticipates that export sales will constitute a significant portion of their revenue within a few years. “We expect to have 90% export sales after a few years. We have an experienced team that knows how to do it,” said CEO and co-founder of Sunfly Dmitri Eivin.

Participation in events like Gulfood – the world’s largest food and beverage exhibition in Dubai – has opened doors for Sunfly to explore opportunities in the Middle East region even more. Recognising the high demand for peanut butter and tahini alternatives in these markets, Sunfly offers an allergen-friendly option, sunflower seed butter.

Identifying market potential

Dmitri Eivin added that they are very interested in the Gulf area – mainly focusing on entering UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain.

“All five sunflower seed butter flavours are ideal for the Middle East and Asia, as it is the only allergen-friendly alternative on the market,” explained Eivin. Leveraging its 10-year experience in sunflower seed processing, the company aims to cater to diverse consumer preferences and dietary requirements in these regions.

Eivin anticipates that expos like Gulfood will be pivotal platforms for forging partnerships with distributors and retailers, ultimately facilitating market penetration and growth.

“All five sunflower seed butter flavours are ideal for the Middle East and Asia, as it is the only allergen-friendly alternative on the market.”
Dmitri Eivin, CEO and co-founder of Sunfly 

The company´s journey and products will demonstrate the potential of innovative plant-based solutions to meet evolving consumer demands and address sustainability challenges in the food industry. Sunfly is poised to significantly impact the global market with a clear vision and strategic expansion plans while championing health-conscious and environmentally friendly alternatives.

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