Investing in technology and know-how in order to increase yields and quality in the fields and to improve warehouse operations is a key part of the Rimini-based company Bernardi Ortofrutta, which specializes in trading and producing vegetables.
Our history dates back to 1953, but since then we have made great strides forward. For example, we have never shied away from investing in new technologies in the processing warehouse, with the latest generation of sizers. But we also want to innovate in the field through agriculture 4.0, because we aim to reduce the use of water, fertilizers and phytosanitary substances, while optimizing yields. 'Zero Residue' and 'Zero Nickel' are our starting points," said Stefano and Christopher Bernardi.
From left, Christopher and Stefano Bernardi
Speaking of 'Residuo Zero' and 'Zero Nickel', the brand 'La Bella Stagione' will be on show at the Macfrut fair. The company specializes in tomatoes, which account for around 30% of the volumes, and the aim is to reach 50% of the tomatoes under the La Bella Stagione Residuo Zero and Zero Nickel brand already by the year 2021," continued Christopher Bernardi, who represents the fourth generation of the family.
"The La Bella Stagione offers a selection of products with residues of pesticides always below the detectable limit of 0.01mg/Kg, certified by DNV-GL. La Bella Stagione - Zero Residue vegetables are asparagus, vine tomatoes, light and dark courgettes, melons and cauliflowers. The line also includes a selection of nickel-free tomatoes and the La Bella Stagione - Zero Nickel tomatoes include vine tomatoes, cherry, cocktail mini and oblong, cocktail datterino, piccadilly and red oblong. The products with this brand are 100% Italian and the traceability of the Bernardi chain is guaranteed in compliance with the ISO 22005 regulation".
Stefano Bernardi has placed all his efforts on certifications since 1998, when he obtained his first ISO certification, and now the company has all the required standards to export all over the world. "At the moment, most of our market is domestic, but we have the potential and the level of quality and service to reach foreign markets. We closely monitor production throughout the entire supply chain, either directly on-site at our farm, or at the suppliers' farms, which are present in all the main production areas in Italy and follow our specifications".
Bernardi's company mainly supplies the large-scale retail trade. "Relations with the supermarket chains are good, because our aim is to solve customers' problems, not to create them. By tracking production right from the fields, we are able to guarantee continuity of supply, uniformity and efficient service," concluded the managers.
For more information: 
Bernardi srl
Via San Martino
in Riparotta 5T
47922 Rimini
+390541 740436
s.bernardi@ortofruttabernardi.it
www.ortofruttabernardi.it