By talking to various aromatic herb producers all over Italy, it emerged that this market is rather satisfactory especially for those who know how to combine high-quality and consistency. There's no room for improvisation.
Paolo Magnani is a historic producer located in San Polo D'Enza (Reggio Emilia). His sons are now working with him as well. "As far as we're concerned, things are now calmer. We grow our produce in different areas to maintain continuity. Over the years, we have noticed that guaranteeing high-quality at a fair price is rewarded. I know about companies that lower their prices too much, which is no good especially in the medium-term. Retailers and markets must recognise fair prices according to the quality and services offered.
"Magnani Erbe Aromatiche" supplies retailers, markets, H&R and the processing industry. "It is essential to adapt to everyone's needs and provide a good service."
Salvatore Corrado from Basilicata explains that his market is guaranteed because he produces organic aromatic herbs destined to the processing industry. "There is good interest for dried basil, so prices are rather stable. We agree on supplies beforehand, so I only grow what I know I can sell. I have direct relationships with the users we supply."
He grows approximately 4 hectares of aromatic herbs and, as he only uses organic cultivation techniques, the company actually covers a wider area as a same product cannot be grown on a same plot before 3 years have passed. "We have drying units at a humidity level between 10 and 12%. A cycle lasts 80 hours. We mainly grow basil, thyme and mint."
Antonio Schinto from Bosia (Oristano) works mainly on the local market. "We try to innovate and focus on new essences. Orange and lemon thyme are doing rather well, just like licorice and lemon basil. "We have also focused on chocolate mint. We grow approximately 5000 sq m of aromatic herbs and our local market is made up of supermarkets, direct sales and farmer markets. Our figures are still limited, but the trend is positive."
Giancarlo Bolognesi has been operating in the Cesenatico area (Forlì-Cesena) for many years. "I am rather pleased with the market and our main channel is retail. These are busy months as tourism absorbs a lot of produce along the Riviera Romagnola this time of year. Things get calmer in autumn. We provide both loose and packaged produce to retailers. We own 16 hectares with almost 2 hectares of greenhouses. Our main products are rocket, parsley, basil, chives, mint and sage."