Openness, product know-how, short lines, and the right match between growers and buyers. That, in a nutshell, is what Chainn stands for. The company, founded six years ago in the Netherlands, focuses on importing greenhouse and outdoor vegetables from Spain, Morocco, and other Mediterranean Sea countries. It even has a specially developed app for real-time insight into the trading process.
Co-founder Pieter de Jong says Spain is their top source of vegetables, except for round tomatoes, most of which they get from Morocco. For fruit, Chainn focuses on Spanish and Moroccan melons and Egyptian and South African citrus. Why no citrus from Spain? "We can add minimal value. Spain distinguishes itself with special brands that already have their own marketing channels," he explains.
Chainn works with various growers to consistently deliver the right, best-quality products at the right time. Its vast supplier network means buyers can count on continuity, while growers are assured of differentiated sales. "With us at the table, there are always three parties: us, the grower, and the customer. It's important that everyone look each other in the eyes."
The company avoids day trade and focuses on long-term matching of parties instead. After being matched, clients can follow the progress via an app that provides real-time updates on their product's status. "Only with transparency is fair trade possible," says Pieter.
He adds that the success of these grower/buyer matches comes from their team's years of experience. That enables Chainn to reach the right price while considering growers' cultural backgrounds and specific working methods. "A forced deal that doesn't account for set requirements and backgrounds has no added value."
Aside from product know-how and developing reliable partnerships, Chainn supports growers, where needed, with advice on sustainability. From separating waste streams to installing solar panels, the company encourages growers to take steps toward sustainability. That also applies to product innovations, such as choosing the right varieties for specific markets. "It's wonderful when you can convince a grower to plant a certain variety, and they have great results," Pieter explains.
Chainn is active in lettuce and herbs cultivation, too, focusing, again, on Spanish products. Despite some regions' drought and water shortages, Spain remains a stable supplier for Chainn, especially for delicate products like fresh herbs. Their short logistics chain is essential in maintaining quality.
Pieter stresses the value of technology and innovation in meeting climate challenges. The Netherlands is important here. "That country constantly increases productivity and improves quality. That lowers costs and challenges Spain to do the same," he concludes.
Chainn
+31 (0)88 222 1000
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www.chainn.nl