Relocating to Glasgow, Scotland, in 2008, Katerina, the Founder of Naked Kimchi, found herself missing the rich tapestry of flavours she had grown accustomed to. The scarcity of authentic kimchi varieties in her new home led her to start fermenting her own, recreating the cherished tastes of her father's kitchen and the diverse kimchi she loved on Sakhalin Island.

What began as a personal endeavour to bridge the culinary gap in her life evolved into a mission to share her passion with others. Fermentation became a way to connect with friends and community in Glasgow, sharing not just food but stories and traditions from her Eastern European roots.

Naked Kimchi & Co emerged from this desire to bring people together through the shared experience of food. Katerina's commitment to the circular economy and sustainable business practices is at the core of her enterprise. Partnering with local farmers and employing refugees at a real living wage, she has created an ecosystem that supports health, community, economy, and environment. Naked Kimchi & Co is not just a brand; it's a movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive food industry.

Today, Naked Kimchi & Co's vegan and gluten-free kimchi leads the UK market, celebrated for its delicious and nutritious qualities. Its popularity extends across a broad spectrum of restaurants and cafes, from Bread Meats Bread and Glasgow Mikaku to Hutchesons Hall and Meadow Road Cafe, showcasing Katerina's vision of a world where food is not only enjoyed but is also a vehicle for positive change. Through her leadership, Katerina Hayes continues to inspire, demonstrating the transformative power of food when it is rooted in tradition, sustainability, and a genuine love for the earth's gifts.