The cooperative Solarenn (Ille-et-Vilaine) continues to grow with a revenue of 50 million euros [56 million USD], a 12% increase. 30,000 tons of tomatoes, 80 tons of Gariguette strawberries and 30 tons of mini bell peppers were sold.
Solarenn ranks fifth on the French tomato market and third among producers from Brittany. The cooperative brings together 32 producers on more than 65 hectares of greenhouses. It has 34 permanent employees and up to 50 seasonal workers in the summer (45 full-time equivalent). All together, the farms employs about 500 people.
In 2019, Solarenn will be expanding its successful range Les Responsables (without pesticide). And to reinforce the initiative of agro-ecological transition, the cooperative recently obtained the High Environmental Value (HEV) certification, level 3 (recognized by NGOs and several environmental associations). It can now add the HEV logo to all its packaging because 100% of the products will be sold under this label.
Solarenn also continues to invest at the station (Saint-Armel) with the creation of a new packaging line to accommodate the development of the products Les Responsables. The air-conditioned storage area will also be increased. All these investments will amount to more than 700,000 euros [784,612 USD].
With the constant increase of surfaces, volumes and the segmentation of products in recent years, the Solarenn team is welcoming 5 new members and some structured support services: logistics, communication, human resources and technical coordination (quality and environment).
Finally, the cooperative welcomes the arrival of four new producers: Steven, Jennifer, Fabienne and Jean-François, who chose to take over the family farm. These pioneers in the field (for 71 years) thus perpetuate family entrepreneurship.
For more information: 
www.solarenn.com
brochure 2019