The trip began with visits to various growers we already work with. Whilst some of these relationships have been in place for some time, this was the first time Nick had met them in person in Egypt.
“It’s precisely by walking around there yourself and seeing the fields where our products will soon come from that you get a much better picture,” says Nick. “You immediately notice how the work is done and where the opportunities or challenges lie.”
Our collaboration with Agro Green was a key focus of the visits. They are a true partner for SPOT and are increasingly becoming part of the Farmhouse Family.
“We work very closely with Agro Green,” says Nick. “We make plans together and build on them step by step. Their new warehouse is truly top-class. It stands out from many other sites and can hold its own against facilities in Europe and the US.”
As well as Agro Green, we also visited several other growers. We maintain good relationships with all these parties, each in a way that suits the local culture and way of working.
What stood out was the warm welcome. Everywhere we went, they took plenty of time for us. Fresh fruit on the table, conversations that went beyond just business.
“They are genuinely proud to work with SPOT. You can tell that from everything.”
It is in Egypt, in particular, that the importance of personal contact becomes especially apparent.
“In the Netherlands, you’re sometimes inclined to carry on after a cup of coffee,” says Nick. “Here, you really take your time. You stay seated, keep talking and get to know each other better. That really makes all the difference to the relationship.”
That way of working fits in seamlessly with Connecting Smiles. It’s not just about contracts and volumes, but about trust and understanding one another.
“Through that personal attention, you build something that goes beyond mere trade. You feel that very strongly here.”
The outlook for the coming season is positive. In terms of volume, a rise of around twenty per cent in potato production is expected. At the same time, there are also challenges.
The cost of planting material is rising sharply, and logistics are also under pressure, partly due to geopolitical developments.
“It shows that you need to get in early and work together. That’s the only way to respond effectively to what lies ahead.”
The journey itself went relatively smoothly this time. A minor delay at Schiphol meant a short night’s sleep, but apart from that, the days were mainly long, with many hours spent in the car travelling between the various locations.
“They were intense days, but that’s exactly what you do it for. You see a lot, talk to everyone and really get a complete picture.”
And sometimes it’s the little things that matter.
“Unfortunately, we couldn’t attend the fight between Rico Verhoeven and Usyk because it was sold out. That was just part of the experience.”
What this trip confirms above all is how important it is to keep meeting up in person.
“It simply strengthens the relationship. You realise that growers appreciate it when you really take the time.”
For Nick, it’s clear: trips like this are essential for growing together and making the right choices as the season approaches.
“Ultimately, we do this together. And it’s precisely by being there that you build trust and a strong supply chain.”
And trips like these also show straight away why working at SPOT is so enjoyable. International collaboration, strong partnerships and constantly on the move – no two days are the same. Does this story appeal to you and would you like to be part of it? We currently have several vacancies at Farmhouse, so be sure to apply quickly… who knows, you might soon find yourself sitting at the table with our partners somewhere in the world!
