Patatas Meléndez is advancing with projects that strengthen its presence in European markets while reinforcing its commitment to national production. It has become a benchmark in the sector, standing out for its focus on sustainability and product quality as key differentiating values.
Commitment to Origin and Agricultural Development
rom the beginning, Meléndez has prioritized local production, establishing strong relationships with farmers and developing strategies to optimize every stage of cultivation.
Its initiative, “Meléndez por Origen”, now in its second year, has become a key tool for ensuring traceability, quality, and sustainability in its products.
This commitment translates into: Adoption of new agronomic technologies, improvements in crop management and development of varieties that optimize production.
“We have built a community of professionals at the forefront of the sector, providing access to training, digitalization, and innovative techniques to enhance yields,” explains Juan Manuel Coello, Chief Operating Officer of the Valladolid-based company.
Innovation Serving Consumers
Innovation is another pillar of Meléndez’s growth strategy. With a consumer-focused approach, the company is developing new products that enhance convenience and add value.
One of the most notable projects has been the adaptation of its fresh potatoes for air fryers, offering a more uniform and calibrated product tailored for this increasingly popular cooking method.
Additionally, the company is finalizing the launch of a new product set to debut in June, further reinforcing its commitment to differentiation and innovation in the sector.
International expansion
Meléndez’s growth extends beyond Spain. In recent years, the company has expanded into France and Portugal while strengthening its operations in Spain’s key production areas, including Andalucía, Murcia, and Castilla y León.
The company’s international strategy focuses on building solid commercial structures to supply high-quality potatoes to European markets year-round.
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“Our goal is to continue strengthening our presence in Europe and explore new opportunities in strategic markets,” Coello clarifies.
The rise of verdete potatoes
One of the most notable trends in recent years has been the expansion of verdete potatoes.
Although its cultivation is complex, with specific challenges due to winter harvesting, demand from supermarkets continues to rise.
Meléndez recognizes the challenges in seed quality and cultivation techniques but remains confident in this variety’s market potential.
“There is no doubt that verdete potatoes will continue to have a place in the market. We need to study ways to improve agronomic techniques, perhaps investing in greenhouse cultivation or refining washing and packaging processes, but demand remains strong,” says Coello.
Potato Campaign in Castilla y León
The potato season in Castilla y León has been favorable, with profitable prices generating increased interest from farmers for the next cycle.
Factors such as price stability and difficulties in other crops, like sugar beets, have led more producers to invest in potatoes, bolstering the region’s agricultural sector.
Variety Diversification
A major challenge for the industry has been the shortage of seed potatoes for traditional varieties, prompting companies to explore new alternatives.
Meléndez has introduced a wide range of emerging varieties, including: Levante, Georgina, Corinna, Yelly, Briana, Libra, Lady Jane
This diversification has maintained a stable production flow and introduced new market options.
