Another dynamic year is behind us - one filled with challenges, but also remarkable achievements. VODAVODA marked two decades of existence, expanding into new international markets, while Gorki List solidified its leadership position with impressive growth. Meanwhile, VODAVODA Vodica maintained its status as an undisputed leader in its category, beloved by children and parents alike. We spoke with Vojin Đorđević, the creator and founder of the VODAVODA and Gorki List brands, about recent accomplishments, strategic plans, and the vision driving his success. 1. The past year brought many challenges. What would you highlight as the greatest success? This has been an incredibly dynamic and successful year for our brands, especially for VODAVODA, as we celebrated its 20th anniversary. During this key milestone, we secured our presence in Switzerland, Australia, and Austria, bringing our footprint to 23 international markets. Entering new markets also called for increased capacity—so we proudly launched a state-of-the-art production line that ensures the quality of our water remains unchanged, just as it is at a depth of 605 meters. Thanks to this, VODAVODA continues to see impressive growth, while VODAVODA Vodica has remained the top choice among children and parents and is the best-selling children’s water since its launch. Gorki List, thanks to its exceptional quality, achieved a remarkable 20% growth in both domestic and international markets. We also introduced a refreshed visual identity and updated brand communication. 2. VODAVODA is a natural artesian mineral water, praised for having the same quality in the bottle as at its source. How do you ensure that consistency, and how is that perceived globally? Without comparing VODAVODA to other bottled waters, it’s important to clarify that many consumers believe all bottled waters—table, spring, or mineral—retain the same composition as at their source. However, due to various factors, most waters go through filtration and treatment processes to achieve the desired taste and quality. In contrast, VODAVODA is bottled directly from a 605-meter-deep artesian well without any processing or treatment. Its composition is exactly the same in the bottle as it is at that depth. When you open a bottle of VODAVODA, you’re experiencing water that has waited thousands of years to be tasted. That’s why we don’t call our facility a factory - we call it the Home of Water. This authenticity and consistency have been recognized both locally and internationally, with a 30% increase in sales. I’m confident that more people will continue to appreciate its natural purity and high quality. 3. Gorki List is synonymous with authentic bitters and a rich tradition. What’s next for the brand globally? Gorki List is a brand with a strong personality and a proud legacy. Authenticity and natural ingredients are increasingly valued around the world, which gives us a strategic advantage for continued growth. We have ambitious plans to enter new markets, enhance our branding, and introduce innovations that will reinforce Gorki List’s position among the world’s top bitters. To meet rising demand, we’ve expanded production capacity and introduced new production lines. With proven quality, tradition, and loyal consumers, we continue to communicate the unique formula of Gorki List and its 27 medicinal herbs in a transparent way, even in a world where most keep such secrets. Herbs like wormwood, thyme, yarrow, lemon balm, juniper, savory, gentian, chamomile, fennel, mint, and others are central to our recipe. This transparency deepens the bond between the brand and consumers, who not only appreciate the rich flavor but also its health benefits, for themselves and for society. 4. What are your strategic goals for 2025? What will be the key areas of focus for brand growth and expansion? Our main objective this year is to continue expanding internationally while making strategic investments in innovation and sustainable growth at home. We want consumers to enjoy premium products like VODAVODA, VODAVODA Vodica, and Gorki List. This year, we’ll be presenting our products at the world’s largest trade event in Japan. Given VODAVODA’s growing popularity in luxury hotels and establishments worldwide, especially in Gulf countries like Qatar and Kuwait - we’re launching a sparkling version in glass bottles exclusively for international markets. We’re also strengthening our distribution in Asia and the U.S., while continuing to support sports and promote healthy lifestyles. For Gorki List, the focus is on strengthening our presence in the premium segment with innovative consumption concepts. In collaboration with top bartenders, we’re redefining how the brand is experienced—merging tradition, sophistication, and modern hedonism. 5. What inspires and motivates you personally in business? What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs starting their journey? Throughout my career, I’ve faced many challenges—including some of the toughest ones—but I’ve never wanted to give up on the vision or sell the brands. What still drives me is the belief that VODAVODA deserves global recognition. I want people in Serbia to feel proud of VODAVODA and Gorki List—not only as products representing our team’s work worldwide, but also as symbols of our country. Every achievement motivates and inspires us. These brands were created for the local market, but we always believed in their global potential. And the story is far from over—thanks to a team of hardworking, creative, and extraordinary individuals. Younger generations may see the world differently, so it’s hard to give a single piece of advice. I learn a lot from young people. But if I had to say one thing, it would be this: believe in your ideas. And even more importantly, to be prepared for perseverance and long-term commitment. Success doesn’t come overnight. It takes patience, effort, and constant improvement. Every challenge is a chance to grow. Every step forward is proof you’re on the right path. And above all - never compromise on quality. In the end, true value and genuine quality always find their way to those who recognize and appreciate them. VODAVODA, VODAVODA Vodica, and Gorki List are the proof.

A large group of joyful children and their parents gathered at this year’s Children’s Festival at Oplenac, now in its seventh consecutive year. The festival offers a unique opportunity for the youngest to spend a weekend in nature, engaging in creative workshops that promote their development through play and laughter. This event has become a tradition, symbolizing joy, family values, unity, and the creation of unforgettable memories. The “Koreni” Foundation, founded by Their Royal Highnesses Prince Mihailo and Princess Ljubica Karađorđević, once again organized a rich program for both children and parents. Despite the festival being postponed due to inclement weather, the event attracted a large number of visitors. “This year, we had the pleasure of hosting a large number of children, and it fills us with joy because we believe that every smile on their faces is a sign of success. In today’s fast-paced world, we want to encourage families to adopt a healthy lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities. Horseback riding, group and individual sports, creative and educational workshops, folklore, dancing, as well as learning about nature and science through fun—all of these made the event special,” said Princess Ljubica Karađorđević. As a proud festival partner, VODAVODA Vodica was a loyal companion to all attendees. The youngest enjoyed interacting with the playful VODAVODA Vodica heroes, who guided them through imaginative workshops and games. When children are caught up in play and fun, they often don’t realize they’re thirsty, which is why it’s important to ensure they stay hydrated with the right amount of water. “This is a unique opportunity for children and parents to enjoy beautiful nature and various activities with our VODAVODA Vodica heroes, who won the hearts of the kids who recognize and always look forward to seeing them. We have traditionally been part of this festival, which celebrates the joy, play, and togetherness of our youngest, as it not only creates unforgettable moments but also helps children adopt healthy habits. Every smile we see on the faces of children and their families is our greatest joy and reward,” said Vojin Đorđević, creator and founder of VODAVODA. The festival also has a charitable aspect and the funds raised will be directed toward expanding the children’s playground at Oplenac.

Zoran Gajić, Minister in the Government of the Republic of Serbia, officially launched a state-of-the-art production line at the House of Water in Banja Vrujci. The ceremony marked the expansion of VODAVODA’s production capacities and included the signing of a sponsorship agreement between the brand and the Volleyball Federation of Serbia, making VODAVODA the official sponsor of all Serbian national volleyball teams. Vojin Đorđević, the creator and founder of VODAVODA, emphasized that the inauguration of the new production line represents one of the most important moments in the brand’s history. With a substantial investment of €2.4 million and a significant increase in production capacity, the company is now poised to enter new markets. Furthermore, the expansion brings new employment opportunities, playing a vital role in the development of the local community. “I’m extremely proud that, together with Minister of Sports Mr. Zoran Gajić, we have officially launched this next-generation production line. By expanding our capacities, VODAVODA continues its strategic path of sustained business growth. This is one of the most significant days in our journey, as the launch sets new ambitions and raises our business operations to the next level. The facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology that brings consumers closer to nature. Our mission—and responsibility—is to ensure that what nature created reaches the consumer in its purest, unchanged form,” said Đorđević. The new production line will not only boost the local economy through job creation and environmental sustainability via energy-efficient systems, but also strengthen national sports through increased sponsorship initiatives—exemplified by the new partnership with the Volleyball Federation of Serbia. “VODAVODA is a socially responsible company that generously supports national sports. I’m especially pleased that Mr. Đorđević recognizes the importance of this. This is a homegrown brand, and we should all be proud when Serbia advances economically. Our citizens must understand the value of economic patriotism. This project also benefits the local community and will enable further investments in sports, thereby supporting our country and the achievements of our athletes on the global stage,” emphasized Minister Gajić. The partnership officially designates VODAVODA as the official water of the Volleyball Federation of Serbia and all its national teams—an alliance of great significance for the sport’s development, according to Federation President Đula Mešter. “I’m delighted that this partnership comes ahead of several major upcoming competitions for our national teams. Supporting younger generations is essential to maintaining the high level of success we’ve achieved. In addition to support for the teams, this partnership includes impactful projects aimed at encouraging youth participation in volleyball,” said Mešter. The story of VODAVODA, a naturally mineral artesian water, began in 2004 when it first captured the hearts of consumers. The vision of this Serbian brand reaching global acclaim has become reality, as VODAVODA now stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s most renowned waters. What makes it truly special is that each bottle—whether opened in Serbia or abroad—connects the consumer with something nature created thousands of years ago. On its 605-meter underground journey to the surface, the water is bottled directly at the source, without any contact with the external environment. The launch of the new production line is especially important for the implementation of a recently signed export agreement for the Chinese market, making VODAVODA the only water brand in the region officially authorized by Chinese institutions for distribution in China. In addition to China, the world’s fastest-growing consumer market, the new line will also support continued export growth in the Middle East, where VODAVODA has long been one of the most sought-after artesian water brands.

Cvetni trg was adorned and embellished with a new modern fountain, donated by VODAVODA to the city of Belgrade and its inhabitants. This unique fountain is the first floor-standing fountain in the city, that people can walk on. The fountain completed the look of one of the most beautiful parts of the city and contributed to the eternal beauty of Belgrade.

During the official visit of the delegation of the Republic of Serbia to Bahrain, which aroused great public interest, one detail in particular attracted attention. Namely, there was a bottle of Serbian VODAVODA on the table of the Royal Court, which, together with several premium world brands, enjoys the status of an "approved product" at the court. VODAVODA, one of the highest-quality natural mineral artesian waters in the world, is present in 16 world markets, while it enjoys the greatest popularity in the Gulf countries.