Ecosoft is a leading international manufacturer of water filtration systems, offering solutions from household filters to industrial reverse‑osmosis systems. If you’ve ever bought water from a vending machine in Ukraine, it was likely produced by Ecosoft. In 2020 the company reached $37 million in revenue (almost UAH 1 billion), demonstrating 28% growth, with 30% of the portfolio accounted for by exports. By 2021 export volumes exceeded $15 million. Under CEO Andriy Mitchenko, Ecosoft is targeting the $50‑billion global market, strengthening its position through a strategic partnership with the Austrian holding BWT, established in 2018.
The start of cooperation: the birth of a vision
In October 2020 the collaboration between Innovative DMC and Ecosoft began. Initial discussions focused on integrating hardware‑software Digital Signage solutions into the company’s vending machines. The goal was ambitious but clear: to create a centralized content‑management system that would boost customer engagement and open new revenue streams.
From idea to implementation: key project stages
- Concept development
The strategy was to implement a modern Digital Signage solution into Ecosoft vending machines. The task was not only to enhance the customer experience with dynamic content but also to turn each machine into a potential advertising platform. - Strategic implementation
Working closely with the Ecosoft team, we integrated hardware and software solutions to ensure uninterrupted operation of the digital advertising‑information screens built into the vending machines. This enabled real‑time content updates, dynamic advertising and interactive customer engagement tools. - Scaling across Ukraine
After a successful pilot phase, a decision was made to roll out the project at scale. Hundreds of vending machines with built‑in screens were installed in Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, Kharkiv and Dnipro. The scaling process was carefully planned to ensure orderly expansion of the project.
Why this project was a breakthrough in the Ukrainian market
- Centralized management — a single platform enables content control across all machines in real time. Screens display important consumer information, including the benefits of purified water for children, pricing, special offers and more.
- Increased customer engagement — dynamically changing screen content shows prices, promotions, educational material about water purification and targeted advertising. This stimulates impulse purchases and increases sales volume.
- Scalability and flexibility — the reliable DSGO.pro media player built into the machines ensures stable operation and rapid network scaling. Proven hardware combined with functional software creates a foundation for future updates, content creation and AI integration possibilities.
The impact of war: challenges and trials
Ecosoft’s headquarters, training center and production facilities are located in Irpin, Kyiv region — a city that became the epicenter of fighting during the first weeks of the full‑scale Russian invasion. Irpin was occupied for more than a month, and images of civilian evacuations under fire circulated around the world.
Even before the full‑scale war began, Ecosoft’s management had prepared several contingency plans to ensure business continuity, but the actual scale of destruction exceeded all expectations. At the same time, having a production site in Ternopil allowed operations to partially resume as early as March 2022.
“Our priority was to reassure international customers who were worried about supply disruptions,” said Andriy Mitchenko. “Our Austrian partner BWT provided €7 million in financial support, part of which was invested in backup production in Belgium. This helped stabilize supply chains despite the crisis triggered by the start of the war.”
Nearly three years have passed since the war began, and Ecosoft still feels its effects. Some ambitious plans, including the expected rapid ROI from advertising on screens, had to be postponed. Nevertheless, the company remains committed to innovation and international growth.
Next steps: beyond Ukraine
The partnership between Ecosoft and Innovative DMC continues to evolve with a focus on international expansion. Further scaling envisions entering the Belgium, Portugal and other European markets.
Learn more about Ecosoft’s innovative vending machine AQUABOX in the video presentation.
Innovative DMC’s vision: the future of innovation projects in Ukraine
Ukraine is becoming a center for investment in various fields, including Digital Signage solutions. The country is rapidly transforming into a leading platform for developing high‑tech products, software and engineering startups. A strong IT ecosystem and highly qualified specialists form the basis for global growth.
Despite war‑time challenges, Ukraine retains its status as a “hotspot” of innovation not only in consumer technologies but also in defense development. With the support of international partners and an indomitable spirit, the country offers unique investment opportunities. In turn, Innovative DMC continues to develop its products. We are always open to potential investors who want to invest in reliable companies and build a systematic business.
