Thraki Distillery & Winery S.A.: From Roots to the Future
Introduction
In the northeasternmost corner of Greece, in the heart of Thrace—a region renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage—stands a company that has left an indelible mark on the map of distillation: Thraki Distillery & Winery S.A. Its origins trace back to 1893, and since its official establishment in 1977, the company has been a living example of the harmonious blend of tradition, quality, and innovation.
At the facilities of Thraki Distillery & Winery S.A. in the Industrial Area of Komotini, we met with the company’s CEO, Fokion Bakirtzis, who welcomed us into a modern, aesthetically refined, and hospitable space—providing the ideal setting for crafting the final Business Story of 2023.
The Principles: Historical Journey and Development
Η ιστορία της Ποτοποιίας Οινοποιίας Θράκης αρχίζει το 1893 στην ΚομοτηνήThe story of Thraki Distillery & Winery begins in 1893 in Komotini, when traditional distillers of Asia Minor origin brought with them the knowledge and craftsmanship of ouzo production to Thrace. This marked the beginning of the production and bottling—initially with rudimentary means—of a spirit deeply intertwined with Greek culture. Through years of dedication to the art of distillation, generations of producers succeeded in establishing their products in the local market.
“This was the first step in shaping the identity of our company,” says Mr. Bakirtzis, highlighting the importance of tradition in the company’s roots.
In 1977, foresight and entrepreneurial ambition led 17 small distillers from the region to join forces, and this is how Potopoiia Oinopoiia Thrakis S.A. was established, based in the city of Komotini.
Success soon followed. With growing demand, in 1982 the company moved to its new, modern facilities in the Industrial Area of Komotini, upgrading its production process. The following year, expansion beyond the borders of Thrace became a reality with the establishment of a branch in Thessaloniki.
Extroversion and International Recognition
In 1983, Thrace Distillery & Winery (Ποτοποιία Οινοποιία Θράκης) took its first step onto the international stage by exporting its Thracian ouzo to Germany. This move marked the beginning of a series of international collaborations and successes, as the company steadily expanded its presence in global markets.
Continuous growth and a strong drive for innovation led the company to expand its product range, introducing new flavors and experiences for its customers. From the production of tsipouro in 1999 to the launch of the premium ouzo “7 Gold” in 2011, the company has consistently innovated and enriched its portfolio of alcoholic beverages.
“The international market is our main field of activity,” emphasizes Mr. Bakirtzis, adding, “1983 marks the beginning of our transition from a local to a national and eventually to an international level.”
Since the first export to Germany in 1983, the company has expanded to many countries around the world, with 85% of its production destined for export.
Infrastructure and Base Materials
Today, the company operates from 20,000 m² facilities, maintains a privately owned fleet, and consistently focuses on upgrading its technological infrastructure. “We continuously invest in technology and the improvement of our processes,” explains Mr. Bakirtzis. The quality of its products relies on the careful selection of key ingredients such as herbs, seeds, and grape alcohol, all chosen based on strict criteria to ensure consistently high quality—and, whenever possible, sourced from the region of Thrace.
Production and Quality Control
Thrace Distillery & Winery has developed strict quality assurance systems throughout all stages of production—from raw materials to product traceability. The company operates a fully equipped chemical laboratory with state-of-the-art instruments and consistently applies rigorous controls to ensure the safety and quality of its products. After all, its strong export orientation and partnerships with leading retail chains across Europe and Greece have aligned its production processes with international standards.
Products & Innovation
The company maintains a wide range of products, with ouzo remaining its top-selling item. Following the addition of liqueurs, brandy-type alcoholic beverages, and tsipouro, the company expanded into the production of vodka and, more recently, gin. Thrace Distillery & Winery follows a strategy of continuous innovation, investing in research and the development of new products and production techniques. This allows the company to stay at the forefront of the market, offering unique flavors and experiences to its customers.
International Distinctions
The quality and authenticity of Thrace Distillery & Winery S.A.’s products have been internationally recognized with numerous awards. From distinctions in global spirits competitions to its participation in international exhibitions, the company consistently impresses both the public and industry experts.
Partnerships and Networking
Partnerships are a central pillar for Thrace Distillery & Winery S.A.
“We build strong relationships with our partners, from local producers to international distributors,” says Mr. Bakirtzis. This networking is crucial for developing new markets and strengthening the company’s commercial presence.
Investments and Infrastructure Modernization
The company’s financial growth is the result of strategic investments, which are set to maintain its steady development trajectory. This includes its collaboration with ena Development Consultants, with Mr. Bakirtzis expressing his full satisfaction with the partnership so far. With the support of the ena team, Thrace Distillery & Winery S.A. successfully completed the modernization and expansion of its existing production unit under Action 4.2.2, Submeasure 4.2, of Measure 4 of the Rural Development Programme 2014–2020.
"With ena Development Consultants, we created a modern reception and exhibition area to welcome our visitors, which also serves as a meeting space for the board of directors. In addition, we redesigned the surrounding outdoor area and upgraded our mechanical equipment with state-of-the-art machinery and distillers. We have completed an investment project with ena’s consultants, and we are already preparing for the next one (Action 1: ‘Basic Digital Transformation of SMEs’, under the Competitiveness Programme 2021–2027). With the drive and cooperation we share, more projects are sure to follow. This is how good partnerships evolve over time,” Mr. Bakirtzis tells us about his collaboration with ena.
Environmental Responsibility and Social Contribution
Η Ποτοποιία Οινοποιία Θράκης εφαρμόζει βιώσιμες πρακτικές στην παραγωγή της, οι οποίες ενισχύουν την αρμονία με το φυσικό περιβάλλον και δείχνουν τη δέσμευση της εταιρείας για ένα βιώσιμο μέλλον. “Η περιβαλλοντική προστασία και η κοινωνική συνεισφορά είναι κεντρικά στοιχεία της φιλοσοφίας μας,” αναφέρει ο κ. Μπακιρτζής. Η εταιρεία δεσμεύεται για την αειφόρο ανάπτυξη, την υποστήριξη τοπικών παραγωγών και την ενίσχυση της τοπικής κοινότητας.
Η Ποτοποιία Οινοποιία Θράκης ως Σύμβολο Αυθεντικότητας και Καινοτομίας
In summary, the Distillery and Winery of Thrace, with nearly fifty years of presence in the spirits industry, stands as a vibrant example of the harmonious coexistence of tradition and heritage with innovation and forward-thinking practices. The company has succeeded in preserving its authenticity while growing, expanding, and modernizing. Its people are deeply dedicated, putting their best selves forward every day to achieve the company’s high goals — which is why every success is a shared success. Its thriving journey is a story of continuous growth, commitment to quality, and a persistent pursuit of excellence.
In the festive spirit of the season, Fokion Bakirtzis shares his wishes for the new year:
"Happy New Year, with health and everything each person wishes for themselves and their loved ones!"
The consulting guidance for the company Distillery and Winery of Thrace S.A. was undertaken by the experienced team of the Business Development & Investment Law Department, led by Nikos Charalampogiannis, with consultants Giannis Kaltsas and Dimitris Firbas. Currently, the company is collaborating with the SME Competitiveness Department of ena Development Consultants, headed by Evi Voivatopoulou, for the implementation of its next development initiative.
P.S. The facilities of Distillery and Winery of Thrace S.A. are open to the public for guided tours. Those interested can contact the company’s front office to schedule their visit, learn about the production process, and enjoy tastings in the specially designed area of the distillery.
Thrace Distillery & Winery
Industrial Area of Komotini
Τ. 25310.98253
Thessaloniki Branch:
173 Riga Fereou Street
Τ.2310625975
Athens Office:
Drosini 5, Kifisia
Τ. 2105128200
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