Vibrant rural areas and quality agricultural products

European land is blessed with beautiful, fertile landscapes and a region with a big tradition in growing fruit that goes back many centuries. Thanks to its privileged geographical position, the unique Mediterranean climate and the fertile soil, producing fruits has been a basic occupation for the Europeans since ancient times.

As a result, this knowledge and experience, has passed down to the next generations and it has improved with the combination of modern scientific methods. Today Mediterranean countries, particularly Greece, constitute one of the largest producers of quality fruits which are exported around the world.

About

The proposed action was submitted by two Agricultural Cooperatives, namely “ASEPOP Velventos” and Rachi Pieria “AGIOS LOUKAS”.

The Agricultural Cooperative “ASEPOP Velventos” is located in Kozani, a northern part of Greece. It was established in 1917 and counts about 400 active member producers who cultivate more than 650 hectares. The cooperative has managed to become well known beyond the Greek borders thanks to its excellent quality products and its modern cultivation methods. Its products comprise mainly peaches, nectarines, apples kiwi, cherries and apricots.

The Agricultural Cooperative Rachis Pierias “O AGIOS LOUKAS” is located in Pieria, also in northern Greece, was officially established in 1991 and counts over 100 members that cultivate cherries in an area of more than 110 hectares. The cooperative applies certified quality standards in the cultivation and processing procedures and its policy is governed by principles that respect consumers, producers as well as the environment.