Spain: UDAPA strengthens seed potatoes and expands the range
The Alava cooperative UDAPA continues to advance its growth strategy with two key commitments for the future: the promotion of seed potatoes and the expansion of its range of convenience foods.
Aware of the challenges facing the sector and the growing demand for certified seed potatoes, UDAPA has decided to triple its production in the coming years, increasing from the current 2,500 to 8,000 by 2028. To this end, the cooperative recently acquired a 22,000 m² plot of land that will allow it to increase its production capacity.
"This boost is essential to guarantee supply in an increasingly tight market," explains Alfonso Sáenz de Cámara, manager of the cooperative. "Seed potatoes are the foundation of the entire production cycle, and we want to ensure our farmers have access to high-quality varieties adapted to current needs."
To achieve this goal, UDAPA, together with Garlán, has the support of HZPC, a European leader in potato genetic improvement. Thanks to this agreement, the cooperatives will be able to develop and multiply exclusive varieties, which will be available to producers operating in Spain. "The agreement with HZPC will allow us to strengthen our autonomy and improve the competitiveness of our members," adds Sáenz de Cámara.
Paturpat and innovation in the fifth range
At the same time, UDAPA is investing €14 million in the expansion of Paturpat, its subsidiary specializing in fresh-cut products. The expansion includes doubling the manufacturing and packaging lines. Furthermore, new products will be developed that go beyond traditional potatoes and will be ready before summer.
"Our goal isn’t just to sell potatoes, but to offer complete culinary solutions," says the cooperative’s manager. "We’re developing ready-to-eat recipes, such as potatoes with various dressings, garnishes with oils and spices, and even mixtures with other ingredients like carrots, which allow dishes like a potato salad to be prepared in a minute."
This approach responds to a growing market trend toward practical and healthy products, aligned with consumer demand for time-saving solutions without sacrificing quality or flavor.
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