Slovenia celebrates green, smart and creative leaders at FDI awards

Four foreign-owned companies were honoured as Slovenia presented its annual FDI Awards, spotlighting investors that have shaped the country's economic landscape.

Steris Ast, Nil, Uni&Forma and Filc were recognised for achievements ranging from sustainable technologies to cutting-edge IT and globally competitive manufacturing, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.

Steris Ast won the award in the category of green companies. Based in Komenda, the highly specialised centre for electronic ray sterilisation is part of the global segment Applied Sterilization Technologies.

"With technology that allows for extremely precise processing and contributes to reducing waste, Steris is making an important contribution to the sustainable transition in the medical industry," investment promotion agency Spirit said.

In the category of smart companies the award went to Nil, a member of the international group Conscia and one of the most advanced providers of IT infrastructure in the region, Spirit said, praising the company's growth, high added value and the culture of a responsible and innovative employer.

Uni&Forma is the winner in the category of creative companies. The Slovenian development and production centre, operating as part of the German Mehler Systems group, develops uniforms for military, police and other security forces in Slovenia and abroad.

"Their products bring together precise engineering, innovation and understanding the needs of the customers," Spirit said.

Filc won the award in the category of big companies. One of the oldest textile companies in Slovenia is now part of the global group Freudenberg.

"With non-woven textiles and laminated materials Filc supplies demanding industries in Europe, south Africa, Asia and Latin America," Spirit said, adding that the company ended 2024 with almost EUR 126 million in revenue and a series of international investments solidifying its global position.

The value of direct foreign investment in Slovenia grew to EUR 23 billion last year, up by 4% compared to the year before, Spirit director Tamara Zajec Balažič said at the 9 December ceremony.

"These figures are not just statistics but a show of trust in our people, our competences and our ability to create a predictable and competitive business environment," she said.

Slovenia wants to remain a reliable partner that knows how to cooperate and understands that success is strongest when the most visible players work together.

The companies that received the FDI awards are such partners, companies that enter Slovenia with a vision, bravery and long-term responsibility, Zajec Balažič said.

Economy Minister Matjaž Han stressed the importance of foreign investment over video call.

"It depends on them how competitive we will be tomorrow, how resilient we will be to crises, and how many opportunities we will create at home," he said.

The FDI Awards, a project of the Spirit agency, were given out for the 20th year in a row. Spirit says the event is aimed at recognising the achievements of foreign investors who contribute to the development of Slovenian economy, create jobs and introduce new technologies.

Photo: Bor Slana/STA