The Portuguese blueberry season is on the starting line at Carsol Europe. In recent years, the agricultural company has invested heavily in two farms, one in Odemira, Alentejo region, where it has 90 hectares, and the other just south of Lisbon, where only organic blueberries are grown on 60 hectares.

All blueberries are grown in pots and substrate, which is quite unique. “This requires a substantial investment compared to the traditional growing method, but offers great advantages. The cultivation is more efficient and sustainable. For example, we hope to save 35% water by growing in pots,” says Harro van Dam.

Short chain

«Last week we collected the first kilos in Portugal, but the volumes are still very limited. The Portuguese season will actually start at the end of March/early April. Thanks to the two locations, we can offer our clients retailers in Europe a self-grown product for four months. The season in Portugal is comparable to that of Huelva, but thanks to the temperate climate, the ripening of the fruit is somewhat more staggered than in Spain. Plus, we can continue for longer,” says Harro. Apart from the standard varieties, Carsol also grows exclusive varieties that are larger, tastier and have a better shelf life.

Meanwhile, the season of berries overseas is coming to an end for the European sales office of the berry producer. «On balance, we can say that we have had a good season, although the coronavirus has presented us with several challenges. For example, in Chile it was difficult to find enough labor for harvesting. At the peak of the season, we usually hire 2.000 pickers, so when there are 25% fewer workers, that has a significant impact, since the time comes when the fruit has to be left on the plant longer or there are "We have to start mechanically harvesting product for the processing industry," explains Harro.

“There were also supply setbacks due to ship delays, although this way the market was sometimes empty before the next ship arrived and large stocks never built up. As a result, the price has never been very low this year. In terms of quality, we have hardly had any problems this season. This month we will receive the last containers from Peru and then the overseas season will end," says Harro.

Ecological cultivation

Carsol is very focused on organic farming. "The demand for organic products continues to increase and we are investing a lot in this type of production, not only in Portugal, but also in Chile and Peru."

Carsol Europe sells 95% of its blueberries to retailers from northern Europe. «That is a group of clients with which our own cultivation model fits very well. Our customers receive short chain products while enjoying the flexibility that many retailers they need. We have grown in all of our major sales markets in the last year. In the southern European markets we have a smaller presence, but we certainly see opportunities for expansion there too,” concludes Harro.