The Apulian Ciarciello Group's 2025 onion campaign began approximately one month later than usual due to initial difficulties with bulb swelling. "It was an uphill start, but we're now in full swing. Harvesting is underway, yields are good, and the first processing operations are well along, " explains CEO and Sales Manager Michele Ciarciello. The group is one of Italy's main producers of semi-processed onions, with an annual output of 5,000 tons.
"We started with the organic red onion," Ciarciello continues. "The 40–60 size, intended for fresh consumption, is harvested by hand. The 60+ size, intended for industrial use, is harvested mechanically. The yields are excellent. We reach peaks of 75 tons per hectare. Field activities will continue until December, if not later."
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Ninety hectares cultivated in the three color varieties, along with a test on shallots
By 2025, the cultivated area will amount to 90 hectares, divided among white, yellow, and red onion varieties. Some are sown in the fall and some in the spring. "All crops are located close to the plant for optimal harvesting and processing times and to guarantee high quality."
A small-scale test of shallots is also underway to assess a potential stable expansion of the product range. We manage the entire supply chain in-house, from sowing to harvesting. "We only work with a few select local partners so we can control every stage of the process."
Farm irrigation helps manage extreme temperatures
Like many other vegetable crops, onions were affected by the extreme weather conditions at the beginning of the season. The same was true for aubergines, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots. However, the Ciarciello Group's access to wells and commitment to careful, rational water management allowed them to maintain production continuity and guarantee high-quality standards. "The campaign started off on an uphill slope, but today we can say that it is going well on all fronts," says Michele Ciarciello.
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Fresh produce market: Germany, France, and Greece drive demand
Although the fresh produce sector got off to a late start, it is quickly catching up. The first shipments of red onions have already begun, followed by white and golden varieties in the coming weeks. The main foreign markets are Germany, France, and Greece. These markets are supplied with customized packaging, including crates, cartons, big bags, and IFCO containers, for both conventional and organic produce. "We listen to our customers' needs and customize formats, sizes, and packaging according to their specific requests," explains Key Account Sales Manager Giovanni Ciarciello.
Industrial production: Peeling, deep-freezing, and a new diced line for the restaurant channel
The new production plant's onion peeling operation is up and running. Ciarciello explains, "The initial processing involved red onions destined for the deep-freezing industry. After topping and peeling, the product is refrigerated immediately and shipped the same day to best preserve its freshness and organoleptic properties."
But it's not just peeled onions. The company also processes unpeeled onions, which are in high demand, especially among industries that prefer white and golden varieties. Around 5,000 tons of peeled onions are expected to be processed during the campaign.
New for 2025 is the 10x10 mm diced onion, designed for professional catering. "Packaged in 5-kg bags, it is the first ready-to-use product in the company's line of diced vegetables, which includes carrots, celery, and courgettes. Initial feedback from the hospitality industry is positive, suggesting good growth prospects," explains Giovanni Ciarciello.
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A 60-year history and a fully integrated supply chain serving the onion sector
With over 60 years of experience, the Ciarciello Group has become a prominent operator in the Italian onion supply chain. The company offers fresh, peeled, frozen, and diced onions to the hospitality industry, focusing on efficiency, traceability, and customer service. The Ciarciello Group holds GlobalG.A.P., GRASP, and BIO certifications.
The onion is our flagship product. We are familiar with every variety and format of it. It's the product on which we've built our identity, and we plan to continue growing with it," concludes Michele Ciarciello.
For more information:
Giovanni Ciarciello
+39 379 185 1217
[email protected]
Ciarciello Group
Strada Interpoderale San Nicola d'Arpi - Pod. 4072/C
71121 Foggia (FG) - Italy
[email protected]
www.ciarciellogroup.it
