In Azerbaijan’s security and construction sector, AGZ LLC has carved out a niche as a trusted distributor of high-quality door fittings, automatic and mechanical doors, and security systems. Representing globally recognized brands, the company doesn’t just sell products—it provides comprehensive solutions tailored to customer needs.
Yet, like many businesses, AGZ faced turbulent times during the COVID-19 pandemic. Supply chain disruptions, declining demand, and financial setbacks forced the company to rethink its strategy. To regain momentum, AGZ turned to the EU4Business Initiative, which helped fund the technologies that would ultimately reshape its business model and accelerate growth.
From Local Supplier to Industry Leader
Since its founding in 2017, AGZ LLC has built a reputation as a reliable partner in Azerbaijan’s construction and security industry. Collaborations with manufacturers such as GEZE GmbH, Novoferm GmbH and Ultraflex Control Systems have enabled the company to introduce cutting-edge door and safety technologies to the market.
By 2019, AGZ had already taken steps to scale its operations, securing exclusive distribution rights, investing in new workshops, and expanding its customer base. However, just as the company was preparing for further growth, the pandemic struck, disrupting supply chains and stalling its ambitious expansion plans.
Surviving the Pandemic: The Turning Point
Before COVID-19, AGZ had set its sights on a 40% turnover increase in 2020. Instead, it faced canceled contracts, revenue losses, and operational slowdowns, achieving only an 18% increase under challenging conditions. The company was struggling variety of challenges ensuing from the lack of control over business processes, inefficient inter-departmental interactions, and data discontinuity. The company’s leadership realized that relying solely on traditional business models was no longer sustainable.
“We needed more than just recovery—we needed transformation,” says Orkhan Aliyev, Director of AGZ LLC.
AGZ sought external support and discovered the EBRD Advice for Small Businesses programme, funded by the EU under its EU4Business Initiative.
“We found it appropriate to participate, as the opportunities offered by the project aligned with our strategic goals. The EBRD team provided invaluable support throughout the project, assisting us in the implementation process,” says Aliyev.
The company management believed that by automating business processes it could streamline business operations, improve reporting capabilities, ensure higher management performance and boost productivity, which would be conducive to the company’s further growth. The project envisaged initial assessment of existing infrastructure and processes allowing for better evaluation and understanding of the beneficiary enterprise's internal capabilities.
The Digital Leap: Launching a New Era for AGZ
Support from the EU included the implementation of a fully functional business management system, automating processes such as CRM, financial reporting, contact center management, HR, project management, workflow, procurement, document generation, and several other tasks.
“This initiative has significantly contributed to our growth. With the new system in place, we have optimized our internal workflows and elevated the quality of service we offer our customers. The automation of CRM and sales processes enabled us to reach a broader audience, increase sales volumes, and offer a smoother customer experience,” explains Aliyev, company director.
To ensure effective adoption of the system, key personnel were trained. This capacity-building component was essential for unlocking the full potential of the new solution and ensuring its sustainability.
Expanding Market Reach
Following the successful completion of the project, AGZ saw significant operational improvements. Time spent on generating reports was reduced substantially, allowing management to make faster and more informed decisions. The company established new partnerships with major international players such as Hoppe AG, Simenswerk GmbH, and Ultraflex. By 2023, the results were undeniable: AGZ recorded an 18% increase in turnover and a 26% boost in labor productivity.
What’s Next for AGZ?
Building on the progress achieved through this project, AGZ is now focused on further growth and digital transformation. The company aim to continuously improve its internal processes, enhance service quality, and deliver even greater value to its customers.
“We see this as just the beginning of our digital journey. Moving forward, our goal is not just to sell products but to create an ecosystem of convenience, quality, and innovation for our customers,” Aliyev concludes.
With a clear strategy, strong partnerships, and EU-backed support, AGZ is well on its way to reshaping the industry and setting new benchmarks for digital business in Azerbaijan.
