Katre Kõvask to lead A. Le Coq and Olvi’s Baltic operations

Katre Kõvask will become head of Estonia’s largest beverage producer, A. Le Coq, and vice-president for the Baltics at Olvi Group in January, ERR reports.

Kõvask, who most recently led oat drink producer Yook, said the offer was one she was likely to receive only once in her life. She said she had followed A. Le Coq’s progress since Ösel Foods and the Aura brand were sold to the company about 25 years ago. As Ösel Foods’ marketing director, she brought Aura to the Estonian market.

In her new regional role, Kõvask said she wants to strengthen cooperation among Olvi Group’s businesses and create new opportunities for growth. She pointed to the development of non-alcoholic drinks across the group as a key opportunity.

Olvi Group’s Baltic portfolio includes A. Le Coq and Värska Originaal in Estonia; Cēsu Alus, Valmiermuižas alus and Piebalgas Alus in Latvia; and Volfas Engelman and the Uniqa water plant in Lithuania.

Kõvask has more than 20 years of experience in retail and the food industry. She has led international and Estonian companies, including Premia Foods, Pharma Holding, which operates the Südameapteek pharmacy chain, Tere AS and Farmi Dairy Industry. She has also worked at Tallink Group, leading its international trade and onboard food and beverage business.

Tarmo Noop is currently leading A. Le Coq on an interim basis and will remain in the role until Kõvask takes over. The company’s previous head, Jaanus Vihand, left to lead Selver.