The company Cítricos Andaluces SAT 3719 (Citran), which started 44 years ago as a family business devoted exclusively to conventional citrus production, has evolved to become a leader in the production and marketing of citrus fruits in Spain, and has done so with a commitment to organic and biodynamic agriculture.
"A decade ago, Citran strategically decided to broaden its productive focus, converting 16% of its citrus production to organic and developing a pioneering project in biodynamic agriculture. Today, we have 60 hectares certified under the Demeter seal, which guarantees that our products not only meet the highest organic standards, but also help protect and enhance the vitality of the soil and the agricultural ecosystem as a whole," says Juan Francisco Ruiz, CEO of Citran.
"This commitment has been a constant driver of innovation for our company, allowing us to offer our customers products that reflect both the natural richness of our land and our respect for the environment."
"At Citran, we understood that, in order to maintain our leadership position, it was crucial to invest in technology, modernization and in a team that was ready for the thriving digital revolution. This is why, in recent years, we have carried out a comprehensive renovation of our facilities. With that, we have improved the homogeneity in our products' presentation. This effort is reflected in the superior quality of our citrus fruits, which reach consumers in optimum condition."
"In our 1,300 hectares of crops, owned by the nine families that make up Citran, we have implemented some technological advances that are allowing us to manage our resources more efficiently and sustainably, from weather stations that provide us with accurate data for irrigation and nutrition scheduling, to drones equipped with hyperspectral cameras for crop monitoring and analysis. We are at the forefront when it comes to agricultural technology."
"Moreover, we have introduced new pigmented citrus varieties, which are becoming increasingly appreciated by consumers for their unique quality and flavour, as well as by growers, who have seen a very significant improvement in terms of size and colour. This focus on innovation and continuous improvement has allowed us to meet the demands of the global market while remaining firmly committed to sustainability. Proof of this is our commitment to R+D+I. In fact, we are setting up a new test field following an agreement with the Andalusian regional government."
Recently, the firm, based in the Seville town of Brenes, has expanded its range to include vegetables. "This decision shows our ability to adapt to changing market conditions," says Juan Francisco. "The decline in stone fruit production in the Seville region due to factors such as adverse weather conditions and, above all, the shortage of labour (which is incomprehensible if we look at the region's unemployment rates), has led us to diversify our production without citrus losing its unquestionably leading role."
Citran team at Fruit Attraction.
"We are still a company deeply rooted in family values".
Despite the numerous changes and the constant development of a sector in which investment funds have gained a prominent role, Citran is still a company deeply rooted in family values. "The nine families that make up Citran have worked hand in hand with our community, creating a company that belongs not only to us, but also to the many families who have found in Citran a place to work and grow."
"Citran is more than just a company; it is the fruit of generations of effort, innovation and commitment to quality. We are ready to face the challenges ahead, confident that our experience, our roots in the community and our passion for agriculture will continue to guide us to success."
Citran will once again be present at Fruit Attraction this year, in hall 9, stand 9F11.
For more information:
Cítricos Andaluces S.A.T.
Ctra. Camino del Bodegón de las Cañas, KM.1
41310 Brenes, Seville, Spain
Tel.: +34955031250
[email protected]
https://citransat.com