"We embraced tradition, but we also introduced innovative techniques, and by expanding our horizons, we are constantly growing the company. Women, too, can lead an agricultural business, with competence and great dedication to the land. Our experience shows how two sisters can run a business in a sector that has been lacking in innovation and with a strong focus on men for years," said Giusy Orlando who, together with her sister Valeria, has become the head of the family business under a new, all-female, signature trait.
Giusy Orlando
In the 50's it was our grandfather, Serafino Orlando, who laid the foundations of a small rural activity. Later, his sons Giuseppe and Alfredo, turned it into a company, by exporting our products across Italy and Europe."
"Today, we still grow about 7000 citrus and olive trees over 15 hectares - continued the entrepreneur - Next month more than 1500 plants of mandarins, grapefruits and lemons are going to be planted. We harvest and sell about 500 tons of oranges every year, mainly exported to Germany. We care greatly about the environment and, precisely for this reason, we have decided to adopt sustainable and innovative solutions, including a drip irrigation system that allows us to reduce the use of water. We are strongly oriented towards communication and digitization, to open to new marketing opportunities and showcase our Navelina, Washington Navel and Lane Late oranges."
Giusy and Valeria Orlando
Harvesting begins in the first week of November with Navelina, and continues with the Washington Navel from December until March. From mid-March until the first week of June, we harvest the Lane Late. The company is certified by GlobalGAP.
"Our oranges do not undergo particular treatments and their processing (washing, sizing and packaging) takes place exclusively in our facility. There are no extra phases. We are members of the Consortium of Ribera DOP and, since a few months, we have also adhered to the Citrus Production District of Sicily.
Fresh preserves made by the company (click here for the catalog)
"We developed our own brand Donne di Orlando and launched a workshop where we make fruit preserves and creams of the highest quality. The peeling of the fruit is done strictly by hand, while the low cooking temperature allows the fruit to maintain all its organoleptic properties, aroma and color. We operate within the short distribution system, and we also have a certified organic line."
Contact:
Donne di Orlando
SP 61 Monteallegro - Ribera
92016 Ribera (AG)
Phone.: +39 0925 545042
Email: azienda@donneorlando.com
Website: www.donneorlando.com