Dairy products company Danone was setting up its first Russian factory in Chekhov, 40 km from Moscow. Definox was chosen to supply a number of different specialist valves. These quality stainless steel parts were for the new production unit, to make yoghurts for the Russian market. Definox was determined to satisfy Danone's demand: import the valves in time and avoid expensive production delays. However, all products imported into Russia, including manufacturing equipment, need to meet Russian norms. To prove compliance, each item must obtain GOST R certification. A major obstacle for Definox was to present technical documents to the Russian authorities that would perfectly reflect transport documents traveling with the items. Also, Definox did not master the complexities of the application process. Any mistakes or forgotten elements could result in long delays.

Bureau Veritas was chosen because it can help at every stage of the import certificate process. To achieve GOST R certification, it is of vital importance to have the right ongoing technical assistance and advice. The Bureau Veritas team includes bilingual experts who know and understand the Russian system. They are based locally and have regular contact with the relevant authorities. A lot of attention was given to collect the right technical information to present to officials. To start, Definox needed to know exactly which equipment required a GOST R certificate. Once identified by Bureau Veritas, these items were given a clear name for easy reference by Russian authorities. Names of items were translated into Russian, being careful to use the most precise words. Identical terms were used on transport documents later to describe the items. From all this information, a clear and complete dossier was produced for the Russian officials. This made it much simpler to apply for GOST R certification. It also helped to avoid delays due to an incomplete application. After starting the process with Bureau Veritas in December 2003, Definox received its first GOST R certificate on May 21, 2004. Definox also chose to work with Bureau Veritas to renew certificates in 2005. With certificates valid for only one year, the entire process starts again for Year 2. But because the first dossier was done professionally, it was much easier to renew the certificate.

Definox was very happy with the results of working with Bureau Veritas. The certification process in Russia is very detailed and complex, which made it a task that Definox was dreading. Instead, working with Bureau Veritas made the entire process relatively simple and less stressful. Because the dossier was complete and correct, Russian officials gave Definox all the certificates that were needed. There were no delays and Definox was able to respect its contract with Danone. The valves could be imported on time. For Definox, it was key to meet the strict time limits set by Danone and satisfy its client. In addition, the company now enjoys the benefits of access to the Russian market.