La auxiliary industry of the fruit and vegetable sector It has become a key element for intensive agriculture, especially greenhouse farming, to run like clockwork. We're not just talking about seeds or fertilizers, but a network of companies, technology centers, services, and logistics that allow fruit and vegetables to reach supermarket shelves with guarantees of quality, safety, and continuity, even in situations as complicated as a pandemic.
In leading territories such as AlmerÃa, Murcia or other producing areasThis auxiliary network has been crucial in achieving high levels of productivity, sustainability, and innovation. From biological pest control to packaging design, quality certification, and investment financing, the auxiliary industry quietly but tirelessly supports the entire modern fruit and vegetable production model.
The entire value chain: much more than seeds and fertilizers
When talking about fruit and vegetable auxiliary industry It doesn't refer to a single sector, but rather to a very broad range of activities that support the farmer from crop planning to the product's arrival at the point of sale. At leading trade fairs like Fruit Attraction, this reality is organized into a series of major categories that allow for a clear understanding of its scope.
First of all there are the seed companiesThey are responsible for developing new varieties adapted to market demands and growing conditions. Their work is not limited to improving yields, but also includes strengthening resistance to pests, diseases, and water stress, as well as offering vegetables with better flavor, color, and shelf life.
Another essential group consists of the manufacturers of fertilizers, agronutrients and plant protection productsThese companies design nutritional and plant protection solutions that maintain crop balance by adjusting doses and formulations to each stage of plant development. In recent years, biostimulants and environmentally friendly products have gained prominence.
Under the umbrella of the pre-harvest This includes services and technologies applied before harvesting, such as irrigation and fertigation systems, greenhouse structures, sensors, climate control, and digital decision-support tools. A true revolution linked to precision agriculture is underway here.
La logistics and transportation They form another basic pillar. The cold chain, route planning, the state of the infrastructure, and the availability of qualified personnel for transport directly influence the freshness and safety of the product when it arrives at its destination, something that was very clear during the worst moments of COVID-19, with truckers facing great difficulties in maintaining their activity.
In parallel, the packaging and labeling Packaging has evolved from a mere container to a strategic element. It must protect, facilitate handling, guarantee traceability, and convey trust and differentiation to the consumer. Furthermore, it is required to be recyclable packaging, lightweight and compliant with increasingly strict sustainability regulations.
After the harvest, the complex world of postharvestThis includes everything from sorting and grading equipment to cold storage, controlled atmosphere systems, natural coatings, and disinfection of surfaces and facilities. Proper post-harvest handling is key to reducing losses and reaching distant markets without compromising quality.
The last link is the dealerwhere the auxiliary industry provides solutions for display, preservation, visible labeling, weighing and checkout systems, as well as tools for analyzing consumer behavior. All of this allows for maximizing the potential of fruit and vegetables on the shelf.
Finally, there is a whole universe of services for the fruit and vegetable sectorSpecialized consulting firms, certification bodies, banks, temporary employment agencies, training centers, digital platforms, and many other players complete the ecosystem. Without them, maintaining the current level of professionalization would be virtually impossible.
AlmerÃa as a benchmark: a model supported by the auxiliary industry
The spectacular productive leap of AlmerÃa countryside It's not just due to the climate or the tenacity of its farmers. Behind it lie decades of collaborative work with a supporting industry that has invested in research, technological innovation, and sustainability, allowing the greenhouse model to adapt to each new challenge.
Among the most complex challenges are the emerging pests and diseaseswhich necessitate a continuous review of crop protection strategies. The auxiliary industry has been crucial in proposing alternatives that are more environmentally friendly and safer for consumer health, reducing dependence on chemical active ingredients.
In this context, the biological fight It has marked a turning point. The systematic introduction of natural enemies to control pests completely changed the way production is carried out in AlmerÃa's greenhouses, improving product quality, reducing crop residues, and strengthening the image of food safety in the face of the most demanding European markets.
Today, faced with concrete threats such as Thrips parvispinusHealth authorities and specialized companies emphasize the importance of implementing preventative strategies based on beneficial insects. The early and well-planned release of predators and parasitoids is considered one of the most effective tools for preventing serious crop damage.
The Regional Government of Andalusia, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural DevelopmentHe has repeatedly emphasized the role of innovation as a guarantee for the future of intensive agriculture in the region. The AlmerÃa model is cited as an example of how to integrate private research, public support, and the practical knowledge of farmers.
The counselor Ramon Fernandez-PachecoDuring a visit to La Mojonera, he emphasized that AlmerÃa's European leadership in biological control is the result of the sustained commitment of the supporting industry. Leading companies have dedicated years to perfecting techniques, multiplying beneficial insects, and developing management protocols that are now being exported to other countries.
AgrobÃo and the rise of biological control
Within this innovative environment, Agrobio It has established itself as one of the leading companies in biological control and biopollination. Its facilities in AlmerÃa have become a true center of excellence for the production of bumblebees for natural pollination and for the breeding of beneficial insects that are released in greenhouses to combat pests.
During the aforementioned institutional visit, the councilor was able to learn firsthand about the bumblebee production processes and natural enemiesIt's a highly specialized job that combines knowledge of biology, colony management, quality control, and distribution logistics. Every box of insects that arrives at a farm involves a complex chain of prior work.
The director of the company, José Antonio SantorrománHe often emphasizes that biological control is a strategic pillar of AlmerÃa's agricultural model. For him, the auxiliary industry doesn't just manufacture inputs; it supports farmers on a daily basis, adjusting protocols, solving problems, and building trust in initially unfamiliar technologies.
AgrobÃo defines itself as more than just a biofactory: it is a permanent research center, focused on developing effective, cost-efficient, and sustainable biological solutions. The stated objective is twofold: to help producers achieve profitable harvests and, at the same time, ensure that consumers can enjoy healthy and safe fruits and vegetables.
The company's growth plans are structured around the Agrobio Biotechnology ParkThis project aims to become the largest of its kind in Europe. It has been declared a strategic initiative for Andalusia and has been incorporated into the Project Accelerator Unit, which will expedite the necessary administrative procedures for its development.
According to forecasts, the construction of the park will generate around 50 direct jobs during the construction phase and around 250 jobs in the first five years of operation. Estimated revenue will be around €60 million annually, with over 60% linked to international markets, confirming the export-oriented nature of the AlmerÃa-based auxiliary industry.
The project fits perfectly into the First Strategic Plan for Greenhouse Fruits and Vegetables. Horizon 2030, promoted by the Junta de AndalucÃa, which seeks to strengthen the sustainability of greenhouses, promote knowledge transfer, attract investment and consolidate AlmerÃa as a European hub for agricultural biotechnology.
The role of the auxiliary industry during the COVID-19 pandemic
The irruption of COVID-19 pandemic It tested the resilience of the entire fruit and vegetable supply chain, from the field to the store. What at first seemed like a distant problem became, in a matter of days, a global situation that forced a rethinking of work organization, hygiene protocols, and logistics flows.
In Spain and other European countries, market behavior made clear the value that consumers place on... fresh fruit and vegetablesespecially in crisis situations. Demand skyrocketed at times, and producers and distribution chains had to redouble their efforts to maintain supply without sacrificing quality or safety.
In producing areas such as Almeria and Murcia Activity did not stop, given that many agricultural tasks cannot be done remotely. Harvesting, warehouse handling, transport, and operations at fruit and vegetable packing plants continued in the fields, with specific protocols in place to protect workers and ensure continuity of service.
Sectoral entities such as afrucat From the beginning of the pandemic, they reported on the increased demand and the efforts made by their members to meet market needs. However, significant problems arose, such as labor shortages for certain harvests, a particularly sensitive issue for crops like strawberries in the province of Huelva.
The carriers They also encountered numerous obstacles: service areas with limited access to basic hygiene products, restrictions on using restrooms, and difficulties at unloading points, where some recipients refused to cooperate in unloading the goods. Despite everything, the system managed to keep the supply chain running.
On the side of the supplier companies equipment, materials and auxiliary services For the fruit and vegetable sector, statements were issued expressing solidarity with those affected and detailing the measures taken to protect their staff. At the same time, they were working to ensure the fulfillment of current orders, the processing of new orders, the supply of spare parts, and the continuity of technical services.
La hygiene and food safetyThese measures, which were already priorities for these companies, gained even greater visibility. Disinfection practices for spaces, equipment, and surfaces were reinforced, packaging protocols were reviewed, and additional controls were implemented throughout the entire chain, from field production to points of sale.
Specialized platforms such as Tecnologiahorticola.com, Poscosecha.com, Postharvest.biz, Actualfruveg.com and Bibliotecadehorticultura.com They played a vital role as spokespeople for the sector, disseminating technical information, solidarity initiatives, and updates on the situation. Their teams, accustomed to remote work, were able to continue operating with relative normality.
These portals highlighted the joint effort of producers, distributors and auxiliary service companieswhich allowed the population to continue having access to fruits and vegetables during the height of the health crisis. They also offered to publicize any information of interest that could help overcome the most critical moments.
Along with this recognition, gratitude was extended to the entire team of essential professionalswith special mention to healthcare workers, but also to those who, due to the nature of their work, were forced to continue going out into the streets so that society could continue to function despite the restrictions.
Financing and aid to the auxiliary industry in AlmerÃa
The consolidation of the agricultural auxiliary industry In addition to talent and entrepreneurial skills, it requires an appropriate support framework. In this regard, the Andalusian Regional Government has announced that it will guarantee funding for the 54 companies in the agricultural supply industry in AlmerÃa that have applied for aid under the [program/funding plan]. European Just Transition Fund.
During a business meeting held in the province, several companies presented their Industrial projects linked to this program. The common thread is clear: to strengthen competitiveness, promote innovation and facilitate an orderly transition towards more environmentally and energy-sustainable production models.
The technology center technovaCelebrating its 25th anniversary, the organization highlighted its role as a driver of R&D&I to improve the competitiveness of the entire agri-food sector. Its activities range from validating new technologies to directly supporting companies in implementing innovative solutions in the field and post-harvest.
The company Biorizon It presented its commitment to the valorization of microalgae, transforming them into sustainable, high-value-added solutions, whether in the form of biofertilizers, bioprotectants, or functional ingredients. This line of work fits perfectly with the trends of circular economy and resource utilization.
Meanwhile, the seed company Rijk zwaan He focused his work on plant innovation, developing varieties that meet the demands of the field and the market. His work includes not only improving yields and resistances, but also adapting to new cultivation systems and changes in consumer preferences.
The certification and control firm Agrocolor His presentation focused on the importance of quality and food safety as strategic pillars of the fruit and vegetable sector. His work, based on audits, certifications, and consulting, helps ensure that products meet the most demanding regulations and standards.
He also played a prominent role COX Aytana, who presented two projects related to renewable hydrogen in the province. These initiatives aim towards greater diversification of the industrial base, integrating clean energy vectors that can play a relevant role in transport and in certain logistics applications.
Upon analyzing the applications received, the Board verified that the total amount claimed The initial budget for the call for proposals, set at 17,7 million euros, was exceeded. To avoid excluding projects that met the requirements, the Andalusian government decided to expand and reallocate the available resources.
The final allocation is approximately 20 millones de eurosThis will allow for the mobilization of over €30 million in private investment. This translates into the possibility of implementing investment plans that strengthen AlmerÃa's industrial ecosystem and consolidate its position in agro-industrial innovation and the energy transition.
Specifically, the published resolution includes 30 projects aimed at creating new industrial capabilities or expanding existing oneswith a combined investment exceeding €25,6 million. These initiatives range from new production plants to extensive modernizations of existing facilities.
To these are added 12 projects focused on more efficient products and technologiesThese projects, funded with approximately €3,3 million, aim to optimize resources, reduce consumption, and improve the overall performance of processes. In parallel, nine industrial process and organization improvement projects have been approved, with a budget of nearly €700.000.
The plan also includes two proposals to support startups, for an approximate value of €172.000, intended to promote new business initiatives with high growth potential in the agri-food sector. In addition, a project is being funded comprehensive management of agro-industrial waste, close to 350.000 euros, key to advancing in a more sustainable management of the sector's by-products.
The beneficiary companies must submit the required documentation in the following days to formalize the granting of the incentives. This administrative procedure is crucial to activate the planned investments and ensure the call for proposals. tractor effect on the provincial economy.
The financial boost is not limited to the strictly agricultural support industry. The Ministry of Industry has also given the green light to three leading projects linked to green hydrogen in AlmerÃa, with a joint investment exceeding 24 million euros. This represents a firm commitment to consolidating the province as a strategic hub for advanced logistics and energy transition.
This entire network of initiatives, investments, and projects reflects the extent to which the auxiliary industry of the fruit and vegetable sector It has become essential for the development of regions like AlmerÃa. From biotechnology applied to biological control to the digitization of processes and the incorporation of renewable energies, this business network sustains the competitiveness of the agricultural sector and ensures that fruits and vegetables continue to reach the tables of millions of consumers with guaranteed quality.
