In the photo: Giuseppe Larosa
"The idea of selling the produce online is a very important challenge, especially considering the fact that the Sicilian citrus fruit market is rather complex. I believe the most urgent challenge is to protect domestic productions against our competitors, thus guaranteeing the growth of the domestic economy. The tool we chose is ideal because it is simple to use and enables us to manage supplies very well. It's the perfect way of shortening the chain."
Sicilia Agrumi was set up over 50 years ago by Giuseppe's granddad. Around 4,000 orange, lemon and citron trees are grown on 10 hectares. Femminello lemons are typical of the area, which blossom three times between October and September.
This citrus fruit stands out for its fertility and unmistakable flavour. The company also produces Navel, Tarocco and Valencia oranges as well as small quantities of citron.
"We sold our produce through local wholesalers for a long time and decided to reach consumers directly only two years ago, when we started selling online on www.siciliaagrumi.it. We currently ship the produce domestically, although we are hoping to be able to one day reach the European market."
"Our company produces around 400 tons of citrus fruit every year and our prices are very competitive compared to retailer prices, especially when it comes to lemons. Despite being unique, these fruits are often paid just a few eurocents. We needed change, which could be achieved cutting costs along the chain and promoting the produce outside traditional channels."
"Through our online system, our company can guarantee final consumers produce that is fresh and harvested the same day it is shipped. This way, it complies with the idea of quality of our most demanding buyers. We are hoping online sales will work well for the fresh produce sector in the long term."
Contacts:
Sicilia Agrumi di Giuseppe Larosa
Via Ardeatine 40 - Solarino (Sr)
Cell.: +39 380 657 6405
Mail: info@siciliaagrumi.it
Web: www.siciliaagrumi.it