Availability and Quantities
More than 300 people work directly on-site to produce over 400 tons of strawberries on 14 hectares of land. Efficient tunnel systems counteract frost, rain, and excessive heat, increasing productivity and extending production times from early in the year to late autumn. The goal is to increase annual quantities to over 1,000 tons with an additional 17 hectares. An ambitious undertaking that is only possible through hard work and passionate commitment.
Variety for the retail sector
With four main varieties and additional varieties being tested, Hivekovics offers a wide range of strawberries for every taste from May to October, allowing us to bridge the supply gap between Spain, Austria, and Germany with high-quality products. The great advantage: With our Exclusive Partner Farm, we jointly develop new varieties. Currently, we are testing the Candela variety, which impresses with intense taste and aroma as well as longevity and resistance. In addition, we have planted various strawberry plants from Germany to expand our range of products further.
Hungary - a sunny haven for berries
The Hungarian location offers ideal conditions for the cultivation of berries. Warm temperatures early in the year and sufficient water make this place a paradise for strawberries. Additionally, the central location close to our customers and an on-site packing station enable just-in-time delivery. This means that we can harvest and deliver on the same day, guaranteeing absolute freshness on the shelves.
Ákos, a climate-conscious, visionary CEO
Ákos Hivekovics, the CEO of Hivekovics Family Orchards, is a very inspiring person. Being a scientist, nature lover and photographer, sustainability is a special concern for him. His travels have shown him the beauty, but also the fragility of our nature. Through sustainable agriculture, he aims to contribute in the protection of our planet for future generations.
Our common goal is to reduce the use of groundwater and surface water and to avoid chemicals. For example, the strawberries we grow are exclusively irrigated with collected rainwater. Currently, a huge reservoir for up to 50,000 cubic meters of water is being built to cover up to 100% of the farm’s water demand next year.
Natural soil is crucial for sustainable cultivation, too. Therefore, Hivekovics Family Orchards applies organic techniques wherever possible to maintain soil quality on the strawberry farms.
Looking into the future
Innovation, sustainability, and passion are the cornerstones of this special Exclusive Partner Farm. We have not yet reached our goal, but every year we take new steps towards a more sustainable future.
You can find an interesting Ted Talk by Ákos here: https://www.ted.com/talks/akos_hivekovics_the_ultimate_city_and_the_new_agricultural_revolution
