As the countdown begins to the inaugural Organic Food Iberia event in Spain next month (IFEMA, Madrid 6-7 June), we will be hearing insights from some of the leading figures from the organic and eco sectors in Spain and Portugal. Here, Diego Roig, founder of leading consultancy EcoLogical.Bio, gives his thoughts on why the Spanish organic sector has been enjoying such strong growth in recent years.
Diego will be speaking in the Organic Theatre at the show at 11am on Friday 7 June.
What do you think will be the key ecological trends in the coming years?
There are several trends at play. On the one hand, the development of the organic category in multiple retail, and its impact on the specialized channel will reconfigure the market shares of sales per channel.
On the other hand, it will be interesting to follow the evolution of the organic pioneer brands and their adaptation to a new environment where the advance of the organic category in the large national industry will be a new reality – both with in the short and medium term.
And, finally, the evolution of the organic consumer will be relevant as the millennials – which have become the main niche – grow and have families, which will imply new needs and interests that will have to be satisfied.
The organic market in Spain has had a strong growth in the last two, three years, particularly in the domestic market. What do you think could have been the trigger for this incredible growth?
I think there have been two main reasons. The growth of the specialized channel of large size (supermarket chains) and the engagement of big retailers and distributors in organic. Both have allowed improving access to organic products and this has been due to the growing demand from consumers to purchase healthier and more sustainable products.
Who do you most admire in the organic sector?
To my mind there are two types of businesses in organic. Those formed by people with a natural conviction for organic, and those who see a pure business opportunity. My biggest admiration is for the organic pioneers, who have got us here, who have a respect for the environment and the consumer, and who built the market. They are the soul of the sector.
How important is the launch of Organic Food Iberia for you and for the organic sector?
I think it is an important project to support the development of the Spanish ecological sector.
The entrance of the large distribution in recent years, the commitment of the large agri-food industry and the evolution of the specialized channel are reconfiguring the sector. Likewise, the growth of the domestic market influences the trade balance, which is positive but in recent years imports have grown at a faster rate than exports. This event is an excellent showcase to give value to the sector, its potential and its good work at a national level and above all to give it greater international visibility.
What would you like to convey to the attendees who come to your presentation at the fair?
We want to offer an objective view of the value chain that we hope will help participating agents and operators to understand the current situation surrounding the ecological sector and allow them to make the best decisions.
What do you expect to find at the fair?
We hope to see many sectorial agents, mainly of large consumption companies, specialized channel, agri-food industry and national and international buyers.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?
When our clients tell us “you are at home, you are one of ours.”
And the most challenging?
Our biggest professional challenge has to do with the previous question. To show that the best way to work in the sector is based on solid principles of respect for the consumer and sustainability and they are what will make the business viable and profitable.
• Organic Food Iberia and Eco Living Iberia take place on 6-7 June 2019 at IFEMA, Madrid.
Photo: Veritas organic food store, Spain (via facebook).