In a landmark development for Colombia’s agricultural sector, PepsiCo has inaugurated Latin America’s largest potato post-harvest and storage facility in the municipality of Tenjo, Cundinamarca. This strategic $80 billion investment, known as the Agro Storage Center, is more than just a cold storage warehouse—it’s a vital hub designed to transform the potato value chain in the Cundiboyacense highlands, a key potato-growing region in Colombia.
With capacity to store up to 20,000 tons of potatoes for six months, the facility employs continuous online monitoring systems to ensure consistent product quality, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance logistical efficiency. This modern infrastructure allows farmers, particularly small and medium-sized producers, to better manage crop fluctuations caused by climate variability, while significantly lowering costs related to logistics and storage spoilage.
A Strategic Win for Regional Agriculture
Colombia’s potato production is concentrated in the Cundiboyacense highlands, where the crop is grown year-round. However, the region has long faced logistical hurdles—limited storage capacity, high transportation costs, and post-harvest losses. According to data from Colombian Federation of Potato Producers (Fedepapa), post-harvest losses in potatoes can reach 30–40% under suboptimal storage conditions. PepsiCo’s investment aims to reduce these losses dramatically.
The center’s benefits extend beyond infrastructure. It is embedded within PepsiCo’s PepPositive strategy, a global framework focused on sustainable growth through regenerative agriculture, carbon reduction, and community support. By integrating this model in Colombia, the Agro Storage Center becomes a prototype for environmentally conscious and economically inclusive agribusiness.
Empowering Farmers through Innovation and Technical Support
PepsiCo, as Colombia’s largest industrial buyer of potatoes, sources around 90,000 tons annually. This center is a vital node in its mission to strengthen relationships with local farmers. The company provides comprehensive support throughout the growing cycle.
As Gabriel Pazos of Agronegocios de Colombia explains, “We have agronomists on the ground year-round, providing technical recommendations and monitoring progress in the fields.” This hands-on support contributes to enhanced yield quality and sustainable production practices.
Farmers are already reporting improved outcomes. Pilar Rodríguez of Asoagrotoca says, “We’ve realized that productivity has improved and our costs are down, especially due to reduced pesticide use.” These results stem from better post-harvest handling and collaborative field management.
Building a Sustainable and Scalable Model
According to María Paula Cano, Public Policy Director at PepsiCo Colombia, “The Agro Storage Center isn’t just a warehouse—it’s a pillar of a sustainable and efficient business model.” It not only strengthens the supply chain but also fosters deeper collaboration across public and private sectors.
Mayor Iván David Nemocón Espinosa of Tenjo highlights its broader regional impact: “This project is a bridge of opportunity for employment and a major step forward for Sabana Centro and Sabana Occidente.”
Such collaborations underscore the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing agricultural modernization and rural development.
The opening of PepsiCo’s Agro Storage Center in Colombia represents a transformative leap for potato production in Latin America. By merging technology, sustainability, and community engagement, the facility is setting a new standard for how post-harvest storage should support farmers, reduce waste, and stabilize agricultural markets.
This center is not only addressing present-day supply chain challenges—it is laying the foundation for a resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart agricultural future. As global food systems face increasing pressure, initiatives like this highlight how innovation and partnership can deliver long-term impact for both producers and consumers.
