All of Roux Pecans orchards are certified organic to EU and USDA organic standard.
"Keeping true to our traditional markets where we have grown personal relationships over many years is important. It is tempting at times to be lured in by new busy markets, but we believe in long term slow growth while maintaining relationships," according to Bob.
The demand for all tree nuts has grown hugely in the past 5 years. Pecan nuts have become increasingly popular particularly in growing markets like the far East. Pecans are a strong source of protein. As global populations become more affluent, they naturally move toward a protein based diet and away from a carbohydrate based diet. Whether it be domestically or internationally, Roux Pecans are in high demand. The fact that they are certified organic further creates appeal to those people who place value in health and responsible farming.
Bob explains that the key to growing organically successfully is to grow where the tree wants to grow. "It is possible to farm polar bears in the desert, but it comes with a huge amount of manipulation. Roux Pecans can be successfully organic simply because our climate, soil and water are absolutely ideal for pecan trees. This means we do not have to manipulate the trees at all. Water is the key to life, and 90% of ailments can be fixed with the correct application of water."
"In 1996 when we decided to become certified organic, it was because we believed in farming responsibly and because we simply could not afford all the expensive inputs of pesticides etc that the professors said we ‘had’ to employ. To make the matter worse was the commercial banks work on tried and tested business models, invariably designed by Agricultural professors who espouse conventional farming practices; pesticides, fertilizers etc. When we needed the commercial banks to help us finance our organic orchards, we were met with closed doors because it was too ‘risky’ and because it had never been done before. Finance was a huge challenge, which is still a key factor in limiting the number of organic farms globally."
Roux Pecans started very small and built its foundation around listening to customers wants, fulfilling them whilst always being fanatical about quality.
"Roux Pecans is a brand that reflects, consistent quality, dedication, and proof that against the odds through sheer determination one can produce a world class product while always making the customer feel a part of the brand. There is a feel good element which our customers associate with Roux Pecans; That through buying Roux Pecans they are actively contributing to responsible farming and a sustainable future," according to Bob.
Roux Pecans have been sold in all forms of packaging, from the early days of selling Roux Pecans branded retail packs in GLOBUS stores in Switzerland, to designing their own bulk packages with bakers and confectioners across the high streets of Europe.
The design of the Roux 10kg bulk carton was not done by accident, but rather due to the desires of their customers; Roux asked them how they would like the cartons and then did just that. It has resulted in many practical benefits which the company would not have been aware of had they arrived with a package and tried to force it on their customers. According to Bob, the success of Roux Pecans is through continuous dialogue, listening and interaction with those that use Roux pecans.
For more information:
Bob Roux
Roux Pecans
Tel: +27 53 2040 001
Email: bob@rouxpecans.com
www.rouxpecans.com