From the Tien Shan Mountains to Chicagoland Markets: How Arashan Embodies Chicago’s Global Food Economy

Chicago is more than a food capital—it’s where global tradition meets bold innovation.

Anchored by industry titans like Ferrero, Mars, McDonald’s, Kraft Heinz, Mondelēz International, Conagra Brands, and ADM— Chicagoland’s food sector continues to attract companies from around the world drawn to our region’s talent, infrastructure, and market access.

One standout example is Arashan, an organic honey manufacturer that relocated from Kyrgyzstan to the Chicago region in 2016.

Their mission?

• To share the benefits of natural, alpine honey with a U.S. audience—through Chicago’s unmatched food innovation ecosystem.

Arashan’s story reflects the Chicagoland region’s global appeal: a diverse economy, a supportive business climate, and a thriving Kyrgyz diaspora—one of the largest in the nation.

With facilities now in both Cook and Lake Counties, Arashan is growing its U.S. footprint and reaching new markets through the region’s strong logistics and distribution networks.

Arashan honey is harvested at 2,300 meters above sea level in the remote alpine meadows of Kyrgyzstan—raw, untouched, and rich in natural nutrients. The name “Arashan,” meaning “a source of goodness,” reflects both the company’s origin and its mission.

Since arriving in Chicago in 2016, Arashan has stayed true to its roots, preserving traditional harvesting methods while introducing U.S. consumers to the unique taste and health benefits of its organic product. With a growing focus on clean-label foods— organic honey continues to outperform non-organic in both sales and volume—signaling a strong and sustained market demand.

Arashan’s success in the Chicago region is also shaped by a growing appetite for authenticity and wellness-focused products. The company now operates two production facilities—one in suburban Cook County and another in Lake County—positioning itself to meet increasing national demand. Its distinct product characteristics—unfiltered texture, rare floral notes, and environmentally responsible practices—have found a loyal audience across Chicagoland and beyond.

For Arashan, building in Chicago isn’t just about business growth—it’s about finding a place where tradition and innovation thrive together.

“Cook County proudly welcomes people from all over the world,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “We value the contributions immigrants make to our economy, our culture, and our communities. Cook County and the entire Chicagoland region continue to be a destination of choice for businesses because of the strength and diversity of our people and industries. We’re proud to celebrate Arashan’s decision to grow here, because we understand the critical role immigrants play in driving innovation and economic growth.”

Arashan continues to build on the strength of the local Kyrgyz community that first welcomed them. Chicago is widely considered to have the largest Kyrgyz community in the United States. According to the consulate, some 10,000 people in Illinois identified as Kyrgyz alone, the most of any state in the U.S. Anchored by the nationally recognized KYRGYZ COMMUNITY CENTER in Arlington Heights, this network helps foster cultural connection, educational exchange, and a sense of belonging—all vital ingredients for immigrant-led business success.

With access to six of the nation’s seven Class I railroads and ten major interstate highways, the company can efficiently deliver its products to more than 40 million consumers within a five-hour drive—underscoring Chicago’s value as a gateway to national and global markets,” said Kyle T. Schulz, Chief Growth Officer, World Business Chicago.

Arashan honey’s raw, unfiltered quality, distinct floral notes from alpine meadows, and commitment to sustainable production reflect a growing trend among consumers who seek products with purpose. In Chicago, where authenticity and innovation go hand in hand, Arashan has found more than a market—it has found a home.

In every jar, Arashan delivers not only a taste of the Tien Shan Mountains, but also a story of resilience, community, and opportunity. It’s a testament to how global traditions can thrive and grow in the heart of Chicago’s food innovation ecosystem.

Arashan offers a diverse range of organic honey products that capture the essence of the pristine Tien Shan Mountains. Their selection includes raw honey varieties such as White Honey, Mountain Honey, and Wildflower Honey, each boasting unique flavors and health benefits. Additionally, Arashan provides honey-based products like honeycomb and propolis, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. To explore their full product line and make a purchase, visit their online store at arashanhoney.com/shop-all.

A key driver behind Chicagoland’s growing appeal to international and domestic businesses alike is the strength of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP)—a first-of-its-kind regional alliance working to promote the metro area as a unified “super region.” Through this collaborative model, World Business Chicago works hand-in-hand with the City of Chicago and the seven surrounding partner counties: Cook County Government, Choose DuPage Kane County, Illinois Kendall County Lake County Partners McHenry County and Will County Center for Economic Development

Together, this coalition helps streamline business attraction and expansion efforts, amplify the region’s assets, and position Chicagoland as a top-tier destination for investment and innovation.

If you’re considering expanding or relocating your business and want to learn more about the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership—and how the region’s network of suppliers, vendors, transportation, and infrastructure can support your growth—drop us a DM or connect with Kyle T. Schulz, Chief Growth Officer at World Business Chicago.