Progress of the PGI application for Plougastel strawberries

The Fraise de Plougastel association was set up in 1998 and now represents the 32 producers of this famous French strawberry from the Finistère department (hanging gardens, open-ground, conventional and organic). Isabelle Lepage, co-president of the association, gives an update on the progress of the PGI application and discusses the issues behind this recognition.

"We are hoping for a PGI by 2025"
In 2022, the Fraise de Plougastel association submitted its application for PGI recognition to the French National Institute for Designations of Origin (INAO). "At the end of 2022, the INAO commission of enquiry was appointed and the application was accepted. In the spring of 2023, representatives from the institute came to meet us and see how we work. Following this visit, we had to rework the specifications." This work was carried out with the support of the Chamber of Agriculture, which provided the association with technical support. And while recognition as a PGI usually takes a long time, the Plougastel strawberry has a small advantage. "The geographical area was already recognized by the prefecture in the 1980s, which saves us precious time, unlike other applications." The association hopes to obtain PGI status by the end of 2025. In addition to protection, the PGI would also help to attract new producers. "The majority of Plougastel strawberry growers are over 50, so we are also banking on this recognition to recruit young growers. If the recognition is obtained, it could open doors to other production areas."

A brand to protect ourselves while we wait for the PGI
To protect themselves from fake Plougastel strawberries and guarantee traceability while they await the PGI label, the producers have decided to take action by creating the Fraise de Plougastel brand. The launch of this brand is closely linked to the PGI application, since the specifications are the same. Recognized in March 2024 by INPI, 'Fraise de Plougastel' is a collective brand owned by the producers' association and also by the Plougastel town council. "Over the years, we have noticed that more and more strawberries from Plougastel are being sold, particularly by the producers who attend open-air markets. The problem is that "there are more on the market than can be produced. Since Plougastel strawberries are grown on 40 hectares, quantities cannot exceed 2,000 tons a year. A few years ago, we even saw strawberries labelled 'Fraise de Plougastel' originating from Spain on Parisian markets. The producers turned to the DGCCRF at the time, but unfortunately the brand was not registered, so these practices remained authorized.

Local supermarkets support the producers
To make end customers as aware as possible of the origin of the Plougastel strawberry, the producers' association has decided to focus on communication. From 2025, the Plougastel strawberry will have its own website, and producers who sell directly will be able to display the new brand logo. "Each producer will have a certificate with a membership number, and supermarkets in Brittany are also prepared to display the logo on their shelves. Ultimately, we want consumers to question where a product comes from."

Photo credit: Fraise de Plougastel Association