Agristo's Jon Heylen Explores New Horizons in Potato Product Development
In this first edition of 2024, our focus turns to Agristo, a prominent player in the industry, as we engage in a candid conversation with Jon Heylen, the Commercial Director at Agristo in Belgium. This discussion navigates through Agristo's innovative approach to product development, their sustainability initiatives, the intricate relationships with farmers, and their resilient strategies in the face of market challenges. Join us as Jon Heylen provides a comprehensive overview of Agristo's journey, shedding light on the nuanced landscape of potato processing and the company's future outlook.
Let's start by looking at your approach to new product development. The newly-launched Sidewinder (pictured) is a remarkable addition to the market. Can you provide more insight into how Agristo navigates the necessary steps to bring such groundbreaking products to fruition?
Certainly. The Sidewinder, as you mentioned, is a product we've introduced to the European market. Our process involves a thorough assessment of where the product fits and how it aligns with our customers' goals. For instance, if a retailer is eager for innovation, we discuss the possibility of an exclusive launch with them. However, our core belief is not in exclusivity but in offering solutions that complement our customers' strategies and contribute to their overall success.
Moving on to sustainability, it's a buzzword in today's world. How does Agristo approach sustainability, specifically in terms of waste reduction and environmental consciousness?
Sustainability is ingrained in our operations. To minimize waste, we've implemented various measures. Starch separated during the potato cutting process, for example, doesn't burden our water purification system. Instead, we utilize it to generate biogas, which, in turn, is used to heat our fryers. Even potato peels find purpose as livestock feed, and plastics are recycled. The net result is that our waste is less than a tenth of a percent.
Shifting our focus back to your relationship with farmers, it's clear that Agristo sees them as partners. Can you elaborate on how your company supports farmers during challenging times, especially considering external factors like geopolitical events and regulatory changes?
Our relationship with farmers is at the core of our business model. While we don't provide coverage for extreme risks, we believe in maintaining open lines of communication to mitigate challenges. We support farmers by ensuring a stable supply chain through seed supply, planting advice, and agronomic assistance. It's crucial for us to foster honest and collaborative relationships, acknowledging the challenges farmers face and working together to navigate uncertainties successfully.
To read the complete article, please refer to our latestJanuary–February 2024 print issue of Potato Processing International.
