Visit from Luka Mesec, Luka Mesec, Minister of Labour, Family, Social Affairs, and Equal Opportunities
How Slovenia Can Support the Growth of Fast-Expanding Companies Like Narayan on Domestic and International Markets
Slovenska vas, November 8, 2024 – Several strategic topics were discussed during a recent meeting between the leadership of Narayan Foods, the fastest-growing food company in Slovenia, and Luka Mesec, Minister of Labour, Family, Social Affairs, and Equal Opportunities. Narayan, known for building the largest vertically integrated "farm-to-table" platform for sustainable food in Europe, faces unique challenges as a fast-growing, disability-inclusive company operating under Slovenia's labour laws.
Challenges Facing Disability-Inclusive Companies in Slovenia
Despite its record growth, Narayan encounters specific barriers in Slovenia’s labour and financial sectors. Administrative and economic hurdles, often imposed on disability-inclusive companies, complicate their growth and competitiveness in the global market.
With Slovenia currently navigating significant shifts in the European automotive industry and energy adaptation, fostering growth rather than facing further contractions is crucial. Encouraging innovative and fast-expanding companies like Narayan is key to ensuring the future strength of Slovenia’s economy. While entrepreneurship, innovation, and employment for vulnerable groups are frequently highlighted in public discourse, Slovenian entrepreneurs report insufficient support in both financial and legislative frameworks.
A Model of Innovation and Responsibility
Narayan has built its strategy around sustainability, adherence to high production standards, and social responsibility, with a strong focus on employing individuals with disabilities. Representatives from the company argue that such practices should receive greater recognition and support. Internationally, similar companies benefit from incentives such as innovation subsidies, tax breaks, and access to land—factors that significantly boost growth and global competitiveness. Narayan’s experience, while focused on the sustainable food chain, highlights challenges common across various sectors.
Creating an Enabling Environment for Growth
For high-growth companies in Slovenia, the development of a supportive environment should be a priority. Such an environment would not only foster local growth but also enable success in international markets. By championing innovative companies, Slovenia can follow the example of more advanced economies, while simultaneously strengthening social and economic inclusion.
Narayan hopes that the Slovenian government will recognize the immense potential of investing in disability-inclusive companies and businesses aligned with sustainable goals. By doing so, Slovenia could position itself as a leader in sustainable economic growth, creating opportunities for its citizens and cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that ensures equal opportunities for all.
Through such efforts, Slovenia has the potential to set an example for sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking economic development.
