Nea Vyssa the largest garlic producing area in Greece

The new Greek cooperation Aspee is specialized in farming and supplying garlic and onions in the area of Evros. Since 1923 the area of Nea Vyssa is known as the largest garlic producing area in Greece. "We find it important to inform a larger audience that in this area aromatic, tasty and healthy garlic is produced," tells Anastasios Giakmoglidis, the director of the cooperation.

Higher cost of production
Over 40 farmers joined Aspee. The garlic is sold in special packages.
"We started this cooperation to join forces, especially now we are focusing on export," explains Anastasios. He tells that the main competition comes from Spain and China. "Our prices are higher, so it is hard to compete in this area. But we can still distinguish ourselves with the quality and the presentation of the products." According to Anastasios the higher cost of production is mostly caused by the fact that the production is more expensive. "It is labour intensive to select the best quality and we only want to export the best. Investing in quality is our number one priority. That is why we are Global GAP and Agro 2.1 and 2.2 certified. And we own modern machines for packaging and sorting. After the handling the produce is stored in temperature regulated storage facilities. This way we can deliver the same quality the entire year."

 Anastasios Giakmoglidis (left) during Freskon

Growing volumes
Anastasios expects more farmers will join the cooperation in the future. "This way we can sell larger volumes. In 2014 we harvested 8000 metric tons on 70 hectares farmland. In the future we will focus on growth and export. That won’t be easy, but hopefully the investments we made will pay off."

For more information:
Aspee Garlic of Vyssa
Vissa, 68001 - Greece
Tel: +30 2552 0 71161
Fax: +30 2552 0 71628
skordovissas@otenet.gr
www.aspee.gr