VIP looks to young people to ensure a significant future for fruit growing in Val Venosta, Italy, placing the issue of human resources among its strategic objectives.
The General Manager of the Consortium, Martin Pinzger, states: "In order to continue being reliable partners for our associated producers and customers, we must be realistic, consistent, and aware of the risks in this delicate phase, where the issue of climate change is coupled with a critical challenge that we can describe as demographic, relating to people willing to work in agriculture—not just in terms of labour, but also in terms of specialised individuals ready to take on responsibilities in agricultural enterprises. This must be said with complete honesty because, these are the real problems of our sector if we do not act to make our activity and environment even more attractive."
"We have strong values, a deep connection to our territory, and great specialization, but it would be a mistake not to reflect on these issues. Regarding labour, we can consider ourselves fortunate. On the one hand, the fragmentation of our agricultural enterprises might seem alarming, with 1,600 production units spread over 5,200 hectares, averaging just over three hectares per farm. However, the small family farm can better absorb the stress caused by labour shortages, managing many activities independently and only seeking external help during peak harvest times. The wide variety assortment we have in the valley also helps, allowing us to spread out the harvest over several months. If we relied on large-scale farms, we would instead risk a complete halt in operations from one day to the next. However, we must not become complacent about this small but significant advantage. To support our programmes and secure a future, we must count on young people stepping up, aware that despite all the innovations and technologies, apple farming is no walk in the park".
VIP can offer young people a specialised and structured environment to produce renowned agriculture. Director Pinzger says: "We are able to adapt flexibly and promptly to market developments, seizing opportunities to benefit our members. We also have observed a positive trend in the European market, which has led to a continuous expansion of domestic production and an increase in the sales of apples during the summer. Import volumes from the Southern Hemisphere have gradually declined. We closely monitor the ongoing changes in distribution, where major retail chains and increasingly discount stores are taking the lead, adapting to their needs both in terms of assortment and service. We have facilities increasingly protected by frost-irrigation, drip irrigation, hail nets, and the most advanced tools available for agricultural production today".
VIP also considers alliances within the broader apple farming system. Pinzger emphasises: "We must rely on producer organisations (POs) and strengthen ties around Assomela for the future".
For more information:
VIP
Tel +39 0473 723 300
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.vip.coop