"Our first time at an important exhibition like Cibus in Parma (Italy) marked a very important milestone, especially considering that we are a small company. It was a good opportunity to test the market demand for preserved vegetables. The growing trend towards artisanal and semi-artisanal products was positive, and the number of visitors to our stand was incredible. We are very pleased with the results we have achieved in just a few weeks. In fact, an ad hoc area has been created in Halls 7 and 8 for small businesses. Participating in these events also allows consumers to compare several companies at the same time and understand their marketing strategy, product quality and processing methods," says Andrea Baraldo, production manager of the Italian brand La Dispensa di Patrizia.
Andrea Baraldo, production manager of La Dispensa di patrizia, the brand behind the new line of processed products from Agricola Baraldo.
Agricola Baraldo is a historic company in the Veneto plain which has been growing, preparing and selling fresh vegetables for three generations. Over the years it has specialized in the intensive production of white and green asparagus, with a market position consolidated by over 40 years' experience in the sector. In 2017, the company launched La Dispensa di Patrizia. This premium brand, which produces a range of processed products, received a special mention at the Veneto Food Awards in 2023 in the category of preserved vegetables. This is a testament to the quality of the products. Among the best references is the processing of white and green asparagus preserves.
"What do consumers want? For the giardiniera, the 300g and 3kg sizes are the most popular, because the former are ideal for the end consumer, while the latter are used in bulk in the deli sector. The 500g and 1kg formats cater for the rest of the customer base. The demand for private label (PL) is also growing. These are products sold under the trademark of the retailer, not the manufacturer. Although we prefer to sell products under our own brand, we offer this service as well."
The raw materials, grown and harvested on the farm, are processed and packaged without the use of preservatives, additives, dyes or correctors. The complete product line consists of about 20 references, including sweet and sour, marinated vegetables in oil, jams and pickles. All of them are 100% natural. The first panel tests were carried out with the help of friends, relatives and customers. Everyone appreciated the quality and craftsmanship of the products.
"Especially abroad," concludes Andrea Baraldo, "there is a growing trend towards high quality artisanal preserves, specifically sweet and sour processed products, and above all asparagus, which is loved and sought after in almost all parts of Asia, especially South Korea, China and Hong Kong.) Currently, although sales of artisanal preserves are stable, despite a decline, there is an increase in demand from abroad. Aside from the asparagus-related products, the 'Zucca in Saor' is also very popular and we are trying to promote this product because it has an almost 100% positive response. Because it is a complex recipe preserved in extra virgin olive oil, it is a product with a higher value than our sweet and sour, but it is also a reference that is produced in limited quantities, and this adds even more value to it."
For more information:
La Dispensa di Patrizia
Andrea Baraldo
Via Arzerdimezzo, 9/B
35020 Pernumia (PD) - Italy
Tel.: +39 346 4910118
E-mail: [email protected]
www.ladispensadi patrizia.it