On July 12, The Hookah Factory in Kobuleti officially opened with Lebanese investment in Kobuleti. The enterprise, constructed on a 10,000-square-meter plot of land in the village of Mukhaestate, commenced operations at the beginning of this year. The investment amount totals 5.5 million euros.
Tamar Gundadze, the representative of the hookah company, informed BMG that the primary objective behind establishing the company is to provide high-quality hookahs of both local and international significance.
According to Gundadze, the enterprise, which received Lebanese investment, adheres to international standards and holds ISO 9001/2015 and ISO 14001 certificates.
“The enterprise specializes in the production of premium-quality hookah, utilizing a range of flavors. Additionally, in collaboration with the international company ROCK, we exclusively import and prepare charcoal for hookah for Georgia, which consists entirely of coconut shells, highlighting its environmentally friendly composition. The company also exclusively imports twelve varieties of electronic cigarettes under the H VAPE brand,” Gundadze noted.
The Hookah production line was launched in Kobuleti in January 2023 and has already gained international traction.
“We are catering to the demands of international markets. Our founders hail from Lebanon, which is a significant market for hookah consumption. Therefore, we initially exported our products to Lebanon and other Middle Eastern countries. Notably, our exports bear the prominent label “Pride in Georgia.” Our products undergo rigorous laboratory testing and have received certification. Most importantly, we are actively preparing for the European market,” Gundadze added.
The company currently employs 35 individuals. The hookah enterprise plans to double its workforce by the end of the year.
By Mariam Gorkhelashvili