Diego Castagnasso recounts his visit to a significant blueberry production site in Peru, highlighting the evolution of Agroinversiones Valle y Pampa from a small-scale operation in a desert environment to a large-scale producer with innovative practices. The article emphasizes the importance of strategic partnerships and understanding client needs in the evolving blueberry industry.
The article discusses an insightful journey by Diego Castagnasso, a fresh produce and blueberry industry expert, who revisits a notable blueberry production site in Pisco, Peru. This location holds significant personal value for him, being the first site he toured a decade ago. The story of Agroinversiones Valle y Pampa exemplifies the evolution of the blueberry industry, showcasing remarkable growth from its humble beginnings in a challenging environment.
Initially, the site was characterized by a harsh desert landscape with minimal resources, where the owners started with limited varieties of blueberries, specifically Biloxi and Misti. As the Technical Director, Juan Pablo actively sought ways to enhance their production methods. Through perseverance and adaptation, including the implementation of various mulching techniques, the team gradually improved their fruit quality.
Over the past decade, the company’s approach evolved in response to market changes, leading to a partnership with Family Tree Farms and the establishment of Family Farms Peru. This collaboration introduced new premium varieties such as “Eurekas” and significantly expanded their operational scale from 70 to nearly 600 hectares.
Despite the challenges of operating within a Closed/Club System that limits sales independence, this strategic shift has allowed them to flourish. The article emphasizes the ongoing commitment of the team to innovate and optimize their practices, as they explore diverse techniques in cultivation and analysis to improve their product quality.
Finally, Castagnasso prompts readers to consider the evolving nature of their clientele and whether new blueberry varieties align with customer needs. He encourages feedback on this topic ahead of the following week’s newsletter, while reminding readers to connect if they are attending a seminar in Lima.
In summary, Diego Castagnasso’s article highlights the transformative journey of Agroinversiones Valle y Pampa from its challenging beginnings to its current success in the blueberry market. By embracing innovation, forming strategic partnerships, and focusing on customer needs, the company has significantly evolved. The emphasis on continual improvement in production practices signals a promising future for the industry.
Original Source: www.freshfruitportal.com
