SUCCESS INDEX. Official outfitter of the Russian Olympic team in the SEZ "Alga"

Today, residents of "Alga" are 12 productions. Among them − the garment factory «Zasport» − one of the first to conclude an agreement with «the Development Corporation of the Republic of Bashkortostan» – the management company of the special economic zone «Alga». About the project, construction and launch of production in an interview with the executive director of the factory Evgeny Vladimirovich Chevychelov.

– What will your factory sew?

LLC "Zasport" is a sewing factory for the production of world-class sportswear. The brand "ZASPORT" has existed since 2012 and today is the official outfitter of the Russian Olympic team. At the Korean and Beijing Olympics, athletes of our country were dressed in the brand's uniform. We are planning to release casual clothes - it's something in between business and sports styles. The factory will produce high-quality casual clothes. Also, our company will be equipped with equipment for the production of branded clothing on orders.

– How did you come up with the idea to open a sewing factory in our republic?

The decision to place production on the territory of the economic zone "Alga" was made in 2019. The issue was considered bilaterally. The region was interested in its economic development, and we were interested in preferences from local authorities. We had several options for the placement of production, but we settled on "Alga" and became one of its first residents. – How was the name of the factory born? The brand was founded in 2012 by Anastasia Zadorina. She came up with the name.

How does your factory differ from other sewing industries in Bashkiria, Russia?

We have a semi-automatic sewing factory. Clothes will be cut automatically and some seams will be performed. There are some types of work that cannot be done automatically, for this we will place modern sewing machines of Japanese production and other leading world manufacturers. It's on its way.

– Who designs the clothes that will be produced at the factory?

We have a design bureau run by the founder of the brand "ZASPORT". All collections are being developed there, and we are only implementing them. We will develop our design solutions only by special order.

– Where can I buy brand clothes?

ZASPORT stores are open in Moscow and Sochi. It is planned to open in Ufa and other major cities of Russia. Also, our products can be purchased on the website and marketplaces. The brand's clothing is actively sold and is in demand.

–You are a resident of the economic zone «Alga». What does it give you?

As support measures, residents are given the opportunity to apply accelerated depreciation and a reduction coefficient for the lease of land plots. Also, the special status of the SEZ territory of the "Alga" provides tax benefits and customs preferences to all residents, which are guaranteed at the state level. "The Development Corporation of the Republic of Bashkortostan" undertook to carry out all communications and organize an infrastructure system. This is the lion's share of the benefits. This is a very costly part of the costs.

– At what stage of development is the project?

At the completion stage. Construction work is still underway, the permit for which was issued to us until January 30, 2023. We are 60 percent ready to launch. The walls have already been raised and the roof has been erected, the floors have been flooded. Now work is underway to connect on-site engineering networks. Soon we will start installing windows, doors and interior finishing works.

Did you have any difficulties during the construction work?

There were difficulties with the supply of construction materials. I had to order something from other regions. There were also problems related to the selection of contractors. The oil and gas industry is actively developing in Bashkiria, so most contractors mainly have experience working with such enterprises.

– How many jobs will you offer?

It is planned to create 310 jobs. Unfortunately, we are faced with a shortage of qualified personnel. Imported equipment will be installed at our factory, so there is a lot of work to train personnel. It is gratifying that the republic, within the framework of state programs, is ready to train personnel for us at the expense of the region. By the way, Sterlitamak residents are actively showing interest in our production. On the basis of the Employment Center, we have already held several meetings with potential employees.

–What kind of specialists do you need?

– Basically we need seamstresses of 2−6 categories.

When is the factory scheduled to launch?

In December we will accept sewing equipment. We plan to complete the construction part by the beginning of 2023. In January 2023, we will begin commissioning, we will test the equipment on site and teach people to work on it.

Source: Sterlitamak worker