'Potatoholics' is how the folks at Agristo refer to their 1,300 employees at their three French fry factories in Belgium and the Netherlands. That number is set to rise substantially, given the company's definite plans for production sites in northern France and India. Slightly more vague, but no less ambitious, are plans to supply retail and food service in the United States with locally produced frozen fries.
Agro Business Director Steven De Cuyper
What started in 1983 as Agrigel, a family business packaging frozen vegetables, has grown into a global player. The company produces 900,000 tons of frozen products annually and by exporting to 145 countries, has returns of €1.2 billion.
Specialization and innovation
In 1987, Agristo decided to specialize in French fries, with pre-fried standard fries as its largest product category. It uses smaller potatoes to produce molded products like croquettes and rösti. "We strive to maximize the value of raw materials and minimize food waste," says Agro Business Director Steven De Cuyper. With innovative technology and strict quality control, Agristo offers a wide range that meets various global market preferences.
Sustainability vision
At the heart of its business: sustainability. Its policy rests on four pillars of care: for the planet, employees, products, and partners. In 2022/2023, the company donated 200 tons of food to food banks and has made great strides in using renewable energy, such as solar panels. It also optimizes its water and energy consumption, and its packaging is designed to be recyclable. Plus, they emphasize the nutritional benefits of frozen foods, including a long shelf life with no nutrient loss.
Variety profile and cultivation strategy
Agristo made a strategic change regarding potato varieties, from Bintje to Fontane, Challenger, and Innovator. These are more resistant and need less nitrogen. The company works with 800 growers in Belgium, the Netherlands, France, and Germany, and its cultivation contracts are tailored to soil types and seasons. For example, you must market sandy soil potatoes quicker, while you can store clay soil tubers for longer. "It's crucial to mix varieties to spread risk in unpredictable seasons," says Steven.
Global expansion
Agristo is looking to expand beyond Europe. A new plant in northern France will open soon, and a production facility in India will start to serve local markets in 2026/2027. The company is also working on a U.S. factory aimed at the retail market. "Our product's unique yellow color means we can stand out in a market dominated by white-fleshed varieties."
Prospects
By 2023, the company wants to produce 1,25 million tons of potato products per year. With strong roots in Western Europe and a vision that extends to India and the U.S., Agristo continues to invest in sustainability and innovation. "Our potato story, born in Belgium, still has a long, wonderful journey ahead," Steven concludes.
Agristo
Waterstraat 40
8531 Harelbeke, België
+32 (0)56 73 50 50
[email protected]
www.agristo.com