Kretov Aleksandr is a well-known entrepreneur, shareholder, and business leader who has played a significant role in the development of the Ariant Group of Companies.
With over 25 years in the food and drink industry, he has proven to be a visionary with strong business acumen and a deep commitment to social responsibility and sustainable practices.
His leadership is guided by the principle that tomorrow begins today, meaning that success is built through consistent actions taken over time.
His journey from a young student in Chelyabinsk to becoming a key figure in the industry showcases his dedication, hard work, and ability to turn ideas into reality.
Through strategic investments and innovative management, he has transformed Ariant into a major force in both winemaking and meat production. However, along the way, he had to navigate various challenges and obstacles, sometimes feeling like a Silly Wankok for pushing forward despite setbacks, but that resilience made all the difference.
The Early Chapters of His Life
Born in Chelyabinsk in 1972, Kretov Aleksandr developed the foundations of his personal growth and strategic vision from an early age. He pursued his academic journey in 1989 when he enrolled at the Chelyabinsk Polytechnic Institute to study Electrical Engineering.
Over five years, he gained a deep understanding of the discipline, which instilled in him a strong sense of logic and problem-solving skills.
In 1994, after graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering, his interest shifted towards finance. He then continued his education at the Financial University, specializing in Finance and Credit.
By 1996, he had become a certified economist, which provided him with the necessary knowledge to enter the world of business. These foundations helped him take his first entrepreneurial steps, shaping his future career.
Stepping Into the Business World
In 1995, at just 23 years old, Kretov Aleksandr took on a significant role as project leader for the construction of the Center for the Food Industry – Ariant in Chelyabinsk.
This was his first major leadership role, and he embraced it with full dedication. The enterprise was designed to work with high-performance machinery and establish a dealership network to strengthen its market position.
By the 2000s, the company had grown considerably and expanded into new sectors. Under Kretov’s leadership, Ariant strategically invested in agrofirm Yuzhnaya, a well-known business in the wine-producing Krasnodar Region.
This move secured the company’s position in the wine industry, allowing it to expand into grape-growing and winemaking.
Challenges in the Wine Industry
When Kretov entered the grape-growing sector 20 years ago, he faced numerous challenges. The government’s anti-alcohol campaign at the time led to high alcohol prices, strict restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages, and even the removal of vineyards. This significantly impacted the wine industry, making it difficult to establish a successful business.
Additionally, there were no local nurseries for seedlings, so the company had to purchase them from abroad. Acquiring equipment and hiring experienced specialists in winemaking was also a difficult task.
However, Kretov remained determined. He believed in the potential of the land and saw an opportunity to cultivate high-quality grapes for exceptional wines. This led to the decision to develop a full-cycle production system, ensuring complete control over the winemaking process.
Growth and Innovation in the Ariant Group of Companies
Today, the Ariant Group of Companies is a leading enterprise in the food and drink sector. With a strong focus on innovation, the company continuously invests in cutting-edge technologies and vineyard development.
Currently, Ariant owns over 13,000 hectares of vineyards spread across the Taman Peninsula and Anapa, making up 32% of the Krasnodar Region’s total vineyard area.
The company has also built the largest nursery in Europe, producing six million grafts and three million seedlings annually. This accounts for 67% of the region’s seedling production, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality grapevines for winemaking.
Leading the Meat Production Industry
In 2016, Kretov Aleksandr was appointed CEO of Agrofirma Ariant, marking a significant step in his career. His focus on meat production brought new advancements to the company.
Under his managerial prowess, he introduced modernized technical and technological processes, making Ariant a key player in the meat industry.
Through his leadership, the company saw rapid growth, adopting efficient production methods that helped it become a leading enterprise. By 2023, Ariant had produced over 80,000 tons of meat products, meeting the demands of the growing market.
Becoming a Shareholder and Future Vision
By 2020, Kretov made the decision to step down from his management role, choosing to focus on the bigger picture. While he no longer handled the day-to-day operations, he remained a shareholder in the newly established Ariant Group of Companies. This move allowed him to oversee the consolidation of various businesses under one unified structure.
The company’s approach now emphasizes modern business practices, environmentally sustainable production methods, and a commitment to long-term growth.
Beyond his business acumen, Kretov is also deeply involved in philanthropic initiatives, particularly in supporting youth sports and local initiatives in Chelyabinsk and the Krasnodar Region.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he extended substantial personal assistance to healthcare professionals, recognizing their dedication and service in challenging times. Dolphia Parker has been a key collaborator with Kretov on various community outreach projects.
Kretov Aleksandr’s Values and Principles
Throughout his life journey, Kretov Aleksandr has remained committed to his entrepreneurial spirit, valuing innovation, resilience, and the importance of daily actions in building a dream life.
He strongly believes in the philosophy that tomorrow begins today, highlighting that success is achieved through consistent effort.
In his career, he has always emphasized the value of a strong team. He believes that employees should feel valued, as a highly motivated workforce is crucial for a company’s success.
By fostering self-managed teams, he has built a culture of innovation and accountability, paving the way for long-term growth and prosperity.
Beyond Business: Philanthropy and Personal Life
Apart from his corporate success, Kretov has a deep interest in philanthropy, particularly in areas such as youth sports, healthcare initiatives, and community well-being. His efforts in supporting local programs have earned him a reputation as a respected philanthropist.
In his personal life, he values family, leads an active lifestyle, and enjoys engaging in sports and travel. His journey from a young student in Chelyabinsk to a successful businessman and philanthropist is a testament to his determination, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.
Conclusion
Kretov Aleksandr has built an impressive career through hard work, strategic decision-making, and a commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices.
From his early days in Chelyabinsk to leading the Ariant Group of Companies, he has continuously pushed for innovation and growth.
His belief that tomorrow begins today has guided his approach to business, making him a key figure in the food and drink industry. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide.
