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Revitalizing rose cultivation and a future in essential oils in Azerbaijan

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I’d like to start with a brief overview of Lecheq. Could you share how the company has evolved since its reopening in 2016?

Our heritage dates back to the 1950s, and the culture of rose cultivation has always been part of this region's legacy due to its perfect climate. Unfortunately, the industry stopped in the 1990s following the collapse of the USSR. We reignited the industry in the region by opening Lecheq Farm & Distillery. Since our reopening in 2016, we have grown exponentially, establishing ourselves as one of the leaders in essential oil production. Starting with 80 hectares, we have expanded our organic fields to 182 hectares, cultivating a variety of plants including Rosa Damascena, Lavandula Angustifolia, Mentha Piperita, and Artemisia Annua. Our state-of-the-art distillery, equipped with 17 copper hydro-distillery tankers only for rose and 2 stainless steel steam-distillery tankers for other plants with 4 main cohobating tankers, processes up to 60 tons of fresh petals daily during the season of May. We have integrated advanced technologies to ensure the quality of our essential oils. Located in Zaqatala, Azerbaijan, our commitment to quality and sustainability has made us one of the biggest essential oil processing companies in the region, contributing significantly to the local economy and agriculture by providing jobs and supporting community development. 

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As a producer of rose oil and rose water, could you share some of the common uses for these ingredients in fragrance applications? 

Rose oil and rose water are highly valued in the fragrance, cosmetics and aroma-therapy industries due to their rich and captivating aromas. Rose oil, extracted from the petals of Rosa Damascena, is a key component in high-end perfumes, adding depth and elegance with its complex scent profile that includes notes of honey and citrus. It is also used in luxury skincare products for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Rose water, known for its refreshing and soothing qualities, is widely used in facial toners, mists, lotions shampoos and cleansers. Moreover, our unique installation system ensures the production of high-quality organic rose water without oxygen contamination, with a storage capacity of 100 tons. Additionally, it serves as a natural fragrance in various personal care products, including lotions and shampoos, providing a gentle, floral aroma that appeals to a broad audience. Furthermore, Hydrolats derived from rose water are extensively used in aroma therapy and offer numerous benefits for overall well-being. The versatility and appeal of rose oil and rose water make them indispensable elements in the realm of fragrances and beauty products. 

Are there any lesser-known uses or maybe untapped segments that could benefit from incorporating rose water into formulations? 

Beyond its well-known applications in skincare and perfumery, rose water has unused potential in several other segments. In the culinary world, it has always been a part of every Azerbaijani household because organic rose water can be used to add a subtle floral note to desserts, beverages, and even savory dishes, enhancing the sensory experience with its delicate aroma. In wellness and aromatherapy, rose water can be incorporated into products such as room sprays, bath salts, and meditation aids, offering calming and stress-relieving benefits. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry could explore its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties for use in natural remedies and medicinal formulations. Its versatility and natural origin make it an attractive ingredient for innovative uses across various industries. 

DistilleryWhat differentiates Lecheq from other raw material providers?  

Lecheq stands out from other raw material providers due to our unwavering commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Our fields are organically cultivated, ensuring that our essential oils are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides. We prioritize sustainable farming practices that preserve the natural ecosystem and promote biodiversity. The fact that our distillery is located right in the middle of our fields ensures that we have been able to yield maximum essence of the most beautiful Organic Rosa Damascena using cutting-edge technology to increase efficiency and minimize waste.

Furthermore, we are deeply invested in the well-being of our local community. We provide employment opportunities to around 1800 workers during the peak harvesting season, significantly supporting the local economy. Our initiatives include educational programs, health services, and infrastructure development for the surrounding villages. By fostering a strong connection with our community and maintaining high environmental standards, we create products that are not only of superior quality but also ethically produced. But our main advantage is that we control every process. From Farming to Cultivating. From Cultivating to Production. From Production to Save and Fast Deliveries. 

What does the future look like for Lecheq? Any projects or company goals you can share?  

The future for Lecheq is bright and full of exciting developments. We are continuously expanding our range of products to meet the evolving needs of our customers. Recently, we added phenethyl alcohol (PEA) or as our friends at SIMPPAR has called it “Rose Totale Des Eaux” to our stock, a valuable ingredient in fragrance formulations. Since this product has been produced organically at our high-end distillery, it contains valuable molecules that can have multi-functional usages.  

We are also on the brink of announcing a new product, which will further diversify our offerings. Our goals include increasing our production capacity and exploring new markets globally. We are committed to enhancing our sustainable practices, investing in renewable energy sources for our distillery, and further supporting the local community with new initiatives. As we grow, our focus remains on maintaining the highest quality standards and fostering innovation in the essential oil industry. 

Where can readers experience Lecheq’s raw material offerings firsthand? 

Readers can experience Lecheq’s exceptional raw materials firsthand by visiting our website, where they can explore and purchase our range of essential oils and hydrolats. Additionally, we regularly participate in international expos and trade shows, such as the upcoming InterCharm Korea expo, IFEAT Bangkok annual conference, BeautyWorld Middle East-Dubai where visitors can directly engage with our products and learn more about our cultivation and distillation processes.

 Come experience the magic of our farm and distillery in Zagatala, Azerbaijan! Industry professionals and enthusiasts alike are invited to witness our operations firsthand and savor the pure, authentic taste of our products straight from the source. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of our plantations nestled in the Alazani Valley, surrounded by the majestic Caucasian mountains. Breathe in the sweet fragrance of rose Damascena and let the clear, fresh air awaken your senses. Discover your new source of inspiration!

Experience the magic! 

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