Agrico and Nedato’s table potato activities will be combined with those of Leo de Kock in a new independent cooperative of table potato growers. The new entity will begin operations this fall. The subsequent integration will take place in stages.

“In this new cooperative, the strategy is fully focused on consumption cultivation and the growers of table potatoes are the owners themselves. This joining of forces thus ensures a better future perspective for the growers involved,” Mark Zuidhof, Chief Operating Officer, declared.

Given the growing buyer demand for an integrated supply of table potatoes, the structurally altered needs of consumers, and the declining market in the Netherlands, the three parties have been extensively investigating how a possible collaboration can best take shape in recent months. The beginning premise was that collaboration should result in a strong, healthy organization that satisfies the needs of customers while also providing table producers with a bright future.

“The bundling of knowledge and activities related to table potatoes creates a highly specialized organization with control over a short chain, in which customer wishes and growers’ interests are efficiently linked,” Wim Van de Ree, Nedato Director, added.

The new cooperative of table potato growers will collaborate throughout the production, trade, and packaging processes. To optimize the benefits of this integration, the trade and packaging activities will be relocated to Nedato B.V.’s current location in Old Beijerland. This venue is the best option for accommodating all events.

“With this integration, we can further improve our service to customers and strengthen our position in the market. We are enthusiastic about the new opportunities this merger offers our table potato sector,” Jan Bijleveld, Managing Director, Leo De Kock, mentioned.

Nedato B.V.’s current location in Old Beijerland has enough available space and is more centrally positioned regarding the majority of the growers engaged.

“The relevant personnel from the three companies will transfer to the new organization so that knowledge of the table potato market and operation will be safeguarded. To ensure quality and reliability, the transition to one location will take place carefully and in phases,” according to a recent press release.

Bringing the activities together in one location gives more control over the entire process, ensures more efficient business operations, and helps you realize your own culture.