#McCainFoods #ColombianAgriculture #SustainableFarming #LocalFarmers #InnovationInAgriculture #AgriculturalEconomy #SmallScaleGrowers #ForwardContracts #PotatoIndustry #EconomicDevelopment
Explore McCain Foods’ transformative influence on Colombian agriculture since its arrival in 1996. Delve into the latest data from 2022, revealing how McCain’s investments have elevated local farming, benefiting small-scale growers and bolstering the nation’s economy. Discover the innovative cultivation methods and sustainable practices driving McCain’s success, making it a pivotal player in Colombia’s agricultural landscape.
In 1996, McCain Foods made its mark in Colombia with the acquisition of Mekato, a prominent french fries factory. Over the years, McCain’s presence grew substantially, culminating in the purchase of Congelagro in 2000, a strategic move that solidified its position in the Colombian market. Fast forward to 2022, McCain Colombia’s sales soared, exceeding USD 315 million, with profits surpassing USD 12.5 million, as reported by supersociedades.
A significant portion of McCain’s success can be attributed to its sustainable farming practices. Approximately 80% of the McCain potatoes sold in Colombia are cultivated in around 2,200 hectares of land. Notably, 60% of these are McCain’s proprietary farms situated in the picturesque savannas of Cundinamarca. The remaining 40% are sourced through forward contracts with local farmers, where prices are predetermined, ensuring stability and fair compensation.
In these contracts, Colombian farmers predominantly utilize the Capira or R12 potato variety, a choice that has proved fruitful over the years. McCain supplies the seeds according to the agreed-upon hectares, deducting the cost from the final payment, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.
Colombia’s potato production is dispersed across eleven departments, with 85% concentrated in just three: Cundinamarca, Boyacá, and Nariño. McCain has had a significant presence in these regions for more than two decades, contributing to the economic growth and agricultural development of these areas.
A noteworthy aspect of Colombian potato farming is the prevalence of small-scale growers. Approximately 95% of these farmers cultivate less than 3 hectares of land, illustrating the vital role McCain plays in supporting local communities and empowering small-scale agriculture. Among these farmers is Jairo Calderón, a testament to the diversity of growers benefiting from McCain’s initiatives.
In the broader context, 6% to 8% of the total potato production in Colombia caters to the frozen potato industry, underscoring the significant impact McCain has on the nation’s agricultural sector.
McCain Foods’ journey in Colombia epitomizes innovation and sustainability in the agricultural sector. By fostering partnerships with local farmers, implementing advanced cultivation techniques, and investing in the community, McCain has not only transformed the potato industry but has also contributed significantly to the nation’s economic progress. This collaboration between a global industry leader and local farmers showcases the potential of sustainable agriculture, setting a remarkable precedent for the future of Colombian farming.
