With the Levantine series of six different handmade baklava designs at this year’s exhibition

Written By Melina Papadioti

The upward trajectory of baklava as a modern sweet snack continues, confirming the product’s potential in mature but also emerging markets. According to Spyros Papadiotis, Vice President Global Sales of Civilite Naturelle, the growth is not limited only to geographical expansion, with particular momentum coming from Latin American markets, but is also accompanied by a clear qualitative shift in demand. As he notes, major international retail networks are increasingly turning to more premium, authentic baklava recipes, while consumers have become more familiar with the product and are able to recognize the difference between handmade, high-quality baklava and standardized industrial sweets. The search for new flavors and experiences is a catalyst for the further development of the category.

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES

Within this framework, Civilite Naturelle’s presence at ISM 2026 is accompanied by new additions to its portfolio. The Levantine series, which combines six different handmade baklava designs in elegant packaging, remains a consistent characteristic of the company. Flavor combinations include:

  • apricot with musk fragrance

  • pistachio with couverture chocolate leaf

  • apple with walnut

At the same time, new proposals are presented such as:

  • gingerbread with honey

  • cinnamon, rose, and hazelnut

  • chocolate baklava with combinations of dried fruits and spices

These innovations appeal to international tastes and contemporary consumer trends.

EXPORTS TO 50 COUNTRIES

The strengthening of presence and entry into new markets has raised the company’s export activity to around 50 countries, accompanied by corresponding investments in infrastructure.

INFRASTRUCTURE STRENGTHENING

Civilite Naturelle’s philosophy is based on combining handmade character with industrial reliability. The company produces products with emphasis on detail and quality, while also utilizing automated processes that ensure speed, consistency, and stable results. Its partnerships with leading suppliers in the category are a key pillar of collaboration with major international retailers. During the period 2025–2026, Civilite Naturelle is moving toward tripling its production and storage facilities, significantly strengthening production capacity. This strategic move allows the company to respond consistently to the needs of large retail networks, with particular emphasis on club stores in Europe and America. At the same time, the increased production capacity also meets the demands of airline markets and duty-free channels. It is indicative that in 2025 approximately two million passengers consumed the company’s baklava products during flights, transferring the experience of the Greek sweet to an international audience.

SUSTAINABILITY

Particular emphasis is also placed on sustainability. In recent years the company has reduced the use of single-use plastics by approximately 80%, responding to the increasing demands of international markets for responsible practices. At the same time, flexibility and the ability to quickly respond to customer needs have contributed to the creation and successful development of dynamic brands such as Plenty-Oh! and Daily Prize. Following ISM in Cologne, the company plans the presentation of glazed nuts baklava and the Thins series at Food Expo and the Summer Fancy Food Show 2026, further strengthening its international presence and global profile. 


WRITTEN BY FNBDAILY
Melina Papadioti
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