Effective July 1, 2024, Olympic Food Group will take over the commercial activities of Greek Grape Company (GGC). GGC, with its 30 hectares, is one of the largest grape cultivation sites in Greece. This acquisition further expands Olympic Food Group's expertise in grapes.
By taking over GGC's commercial activities, Olympic Food Group (OFG) gains control over the majority of its production. These will mainly be sold through Olympic Fruit, one of the companies within OFG. "Grapes are very important within Olympic Fruit's range. It is one of the products we have been specialists in for years, and we are therefore very pleased with this step. Being so close to the cultivation allows us to better ensure quality and availability for our customers. Additionally, the collaboration with GGC feels very positive," says Lennart van den Heuvel, CEO of Olympic Food Group.
George Saliaris-Fasseas, founder of Greek Grape Company, is also enthusiastic. "I am delighted to cooperate with an innovative company in Holland that understands the fields, is practical in operations, and has similar quality standards to ours. Last year we were ranked the number one quality supplier to our biggest UK retailer and we are the first grape farm to be certified for sustainability. With Olympic Food Group's guidance and partnership, we will keep on pushing our boundaries and delight their clients' consumers in more countries."
The cultivation site, located in Agios Pavlos, Halkidiki, in northern Greece, lies directly on the coast and benefits from a unique north wind that enhances the grapes' crispiness. "Also, the stable climate and rich soil make this a perfect location for grape cultivation," says George.
GGC is the third self-managed cultivation site for Olympic Food Group. Besides GGC, Cederberg in South Africa (grapes) and Dojrana in North Macedonia (cherries, apricots, plums and apples) are also part of the OFG. "Due to climate change, product availability is becoming an increasing challenge. Adding cultivation activities to our portfolio helps us secure this in a sustainable way", says Lennart.
Greek Grape Company cultivates various white and red grape varieties from Bloomfresh. White varieties include Sugar Crisp, Sweet Globe, and Cotton Candy (expected). Red varieties are Jack Salute and Sweet Celebration.
The first grapes will be available via Olympic Fruit from approximately week 35 to week 43.
For more information:
Loes Al
Olympic Food Group
Tel: +31(0)6 16 63 21 23
[email protected]
www.olympicfruit.com