Mr. Salmanidis, tell us a few words about your company?
The company, founded by our father, Prodomos Salmanidis, in 1994, has always been a pioneer in the field of plastics. By introducing the highest quality and specification multi-purpose plastic crates for fruit harvesting from farms and innovatively introducing single-use plastic trays to the Greek packaging industry in 1997, it created new opportunities and solutions for fruit and vegetable exporters in our country.
What services do you provide in the field of fresh fruits and vegetables?
The sector of fresh produce is considered the driving force of the Greek economy, and it is an honor for us to be an integral part of this chain. This honor also carries great responsibilities. We have responsibilities towards Greek farmers, as the quality of our multi-purpose crates must ensure the smooth flow of their operations. On the other hand, the responsibility is even greater when it comes to single-use trays, as packaging represents the external image that accompanies a product for which the entire agricultural and commercial sector has worked tirelessly throughout the year.
Do your customers extend beyond Greece? If yes, in which markets?
Our company could be characterized as indirectly export-oriented through our single-use trays, as our products are supplied to packers from neighboring regions who export to Europe, Eastern countries, India, China, and America. Regarding our multi-purpose crates, despite the high transportation costs, our company is entrusted by companies and farmers from all over Greece, including Cyprus, due to the high standards we maintain in our products.
Regarding the field of fruits and vegetables, have you noticed an expansion or decline in your orders in recent years due to the economic crisis?
The economic crisis has certainly affected every aspect of the Greek economy, including the field of fruits and vegetables. However, this particular sector is more vulnerable to weather conditions and competition from similar sectors in other European countries such as Italy and Spain. As a company, what we have observed is that opportunities arise during every crisis, which can only be seized by capable professionals in the industry. This contributes to the stability, recovery, and growth of the sector.
Which products do you see increasing in sales based on your own orders?
It is evident to everyone familiar with our industry that there is a positive shift towards our sector, and we observe an increase in cultivation and production every year. Based on our own sales, we notice a growing trend for peaches, which serve as a driving force for the industry. Additionally, we see a shift towards more exotic fruits such as kiwis, which provide significant financial impetus to the sector.
What are your immediate business plans for the upcoming period?
Our company has been in existence for 23 years, and we aim to at least double that. It is a family business where the new generation, Vasilios and Marios, have taken the reins from their father, the founder of the company. With the same dedication he demonstrated, the new generation will continue his work. Our company has always had an investment-oriented character, focusing on innovation and modernization of the mechanical equipment to ensure the highest quality and service.
-In conclusion, would you like to add anything else?
In closing, we would like to wish a healthy and prosperous year to all members of the industry, from the smallest to the largest link in this significant chain. It is a chain that proudly represents Greece internationally, with its continuously successful and growing presence in the global fresh fruits and vegetables sector.