Modernized Rīgas Miesnieks Dumpling Production Facility Opens in Jelgava
8. May 2026A modernized dumpling production facility has been officially opened in Jelgava at the Rīgas Miesnieks plant, which is part of the international food group Maag Food. Nearly €2 million has been invested in the project, significantly increasing production capacity, efficiency, and export potential. As a result of the modernization, dumpling production volumes will increase by an average of 23%. This corresponds to approximately 12 million packages produced, or an average of 6 packages per Latvian resident per year, significantly strengthening the company’s ability to meet demand both in the local market and in export markets.
The investment in dumpling production is an important step in the company’s development strategy, strengthening its position both in Latvia and in export markets across Northern and Central Europe. “This investment is not just about increasing production capacity – it is about quality, efficiency, and the ability to compete on an international level. The modernized facility allows us not only to work faster and more precisely, but also to expand export volumes and enter new markets,” says Heino Lapiņš, Member of the Board at Maag Latvija.
New Technologies and Sustainable Production
“The modernization of the Jelgava dumpling production facility is one of the largest manufacturing investments our group has made in recent years. With an investment of nearly two million euros, we are increasing production capacity to 4,800 tons per year. Demand for high-quality convenience products continues to grow steadily, and we wanted to be prepared for that growth. Today, two thirds of the dumplings produced in Jelgava are sold to export markets, and this investment gives us the production capacity to further strengthen our position both internationally and in the domestic market. We are also pleased to note that the project received 40% EU funding support, confirming that this is a well-considered and sustainable investment also in the eyes of external evaluators,” says Meelis Pihlak, Production Director and Member of the Management Board at Maag Food.
The modernized dumpling facility covers a total area of 1,178.8 square meters and includes several significant technological innovations. A 13.7-meter-high flour supply tower has been built, ensuring a continuous and precise production process, along with the installation of next-generation meat grinding, dosing, dumpling forming, and packaging lines. Faster and more energy-efficient freezing technologies have also been introduced, helping to maintain product quality while optimizing production flow and reducing manual labor.
The modernization ensures more consistent product quality, uniform taste and shape in every batch, and higher food safety standards. Faster freezing helps better preserve the texture and nutritional value of the dumplings, while more precise dosing reduces raw material waste. The facility has also become more environmentally friendly, using energy-efficient technologies and enabling a transition to recyclable packaging. The company continues to collaborate with local suppliers, sourcing high-quality flour for dumpling production from Dobeles Dzirnavnieks, thereby strengthening the local supply chain and supporting Latvian producers.
Minister of Agriculture in Latvia, Armands Krauze, says that it is highly important that Latvia increasingly processes its own products. “This way we and create higher added value here in our own country. Furthermore, this means a stronger economy, more jobs in the regions and real opportunities for people to live and work in Latvia. This kind of development path ensures sustainability and a competitive state. The modernized dumpling production facility at the Rīgas Miesnieks plant in Jelgava, by increasing production capacity and efficiency, is a good example that will help achieve this goal.”
Improved Work Environment and Jelgava as a Food Production Hub
The modernization has significantly improved the working environment. Physical strain on employees has been reduced, a more ergonomic and inclusive workspace has been created, and production has shifted to a three-shift system, allowing for more efficient use of capacity. At the same time, the technical and quality teams have been expanded, strengthening food safety and certification processes. In total, Maag Latvija employs more than 200 people, over 130 of whom work in Jelgava.
The modernized dumpling facility strengthens Jelgava’s role as an important food production center in Latvia and contributes to the region’s economic development. The Jelgava plant produces not only dumplings but also well-known Rīgas Miesnieks products, including classic doctor’s sausage, grill sausages such as Mārtiņš, Mednieku and Chicken sausages with cheese, as well as cold-smoked sausages such as Jubilejas, Milano, Pelerno, and truffle salami. The facility also produces slow-cooked products, including ribs and pulled meat, which have gained increasing popularity among consumers in recent years. More than 200 different products across 12 product categories are produced in Jelgava.
“Jelgava is one of our most strategically important production centers in Latvia, where we concentrate both traditional and innovative products. Not only dumplings are produced here, but also many consumer-favorite meat products that form a significant part of our assortment and export offering,” emphasizes Sindija Prīse, Head of Marketing and Product Development at Maag Latvija.
A Stable Company with Ambitions
2024. Maag Latvija achieved a turnover of €53 million in 2024 and continues to develop its product portfolio and export directions. The Rīgas Miesnieks brand, which will celebrate its 105th anniversary in 2027, has experienced significant growth in recent years, expanding into new segments and strengthening its position in Latvia.
About the Company:
Maag Latvija is part of Maag Food, one of the leading food industry groups in the Baltic region. The company’s home markets are Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland, and the group employs approximately 2,300 people in total. Maag Food represents a range of well-known brands, including Rīgas Miesnieks, Rakvere, Tallegg, Tere, Farmi, Deary, Klaipėdos Maistas, and Pouttu.
