El Ciruelo closed 2023 with better production results compared to the previous year, solidifying its position as one of the largest table grape and stone fruit producers in Europe, with over 40 years of horticultural experience in the sector.
"I would rate 2023 as a good year, both for stone fruit and grapes, if we compare it with 2022," says José Velasco, CEO of El Ciruelo. "In 2023, the productions did much better in terms of yields per hectare. Also, the weather conditions have been better for the crops this past year, so a greater percentage of the fruit has been usable."
As for table grapes, the company has reached 110,000 tons. "One of our strengths is that we have our own production virtually all year round," says José Velasco. "We have production facilities in two key locations: our main headquarters in Spain, with around 1,500 hectares, and our emerging subsidiary in Brazil, with about 1,000 hectares. This strategy allows us to meet our quality standards and ensures a constant supply of table grapes," says Velasco.
The company will keep the same acreage for now, although it might continue to diversify its business. "Right now, we are in a phase of project consolidation, so it is not our priority to expand the acreage. For this campaign, our efforts are focused on unifying criteria, professionalizing staff, digitizing and optimizing processes, which will directly result in better services for our customers and improvements in the quality of our products," says the CEO of El Ciruelo.
"A long and early stone fruit season to arrive before most"
The company also stands out for its long and early stone fruit production season. With around 1,300 hectares devoted to its own production, El Ciruelo has managed to obtain over 46,000 tons.
"Our cultivation areas are strategically-located in areas with favorable weather conditions, so we start the season before most other producers. From April onwards, we have a wide range of stone fruits, long before the productions in other parts of Spain are available," he says.
Brand image and B2C communication
In a connected world, brand image and effective communication are essential. "We are proud of our presence on social media, where we have built a special community together with our customers and consumers," says José Velasco.
"We actively promote healthy habits by participating in sports events and spreading information about how to have a balanced diet. We are also showing our commitment to the community by donating our surplus fruits to non-profit associations, ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food."
For more information:
El Ciruelo S.L.
Autovía Alhama
Cartagena, Km 2,5
30840, Murcia, Spain
T: +34 968 630 645
comunicacion@elciruelo.com
Brazil
José Lins do Rego, N.º 15
56.328-645 - Petrolina
www.elciruelo.com