9 April 2024
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A pioneer in the Limburg AGF sector: Ad Pollux. As owner of Eurofresh in Venlo, a renowned cash & carry for fruits and vegetables, Pollux has built an impressive track record in the sector. But his involvement is not limited to his company; he also has a fine partnership with the Regional Food System Limburg (RVS-LB).
From 2019 to 2021, Pollux was director of De Coöperatieve Fruitveiling Zuid-Limburg in Margraten. The merger with Royal Fruitmasters was initiated and arranged by him. His mission? To restore future prospects for both the auction and the sector. And with success. After the merger, the pioneer decided to return to Eurofresh, the company he had founded himself 25 years ago.
Collaboration with RVS-LB
The connection to the Regional Food System Limburg (RVS-LB) was a natural extension of his previous involvement with the auction. "I sat at the table at the origin of the RVS-LB," Pollux says. "The idea of uniting and promoting Limburg products immediately appealed to me. I strongly believe in collaboration, and this initiative is the perfect platform for that."
"Cooperation is important everywhere," he continues. "Together you get further. New possibilities arise, you see more opportunities and you can take bigger steps. Collaboration is the key to moving forward, in any sector!"
Eye for smaller growers
Pollux says the added value of RVS-LB is in connecting parties and partners in the region. "Especially smaller producers benefit from this," he says. "They often don't have the resources or network to market their products efficiently and at fair prices. These growers rely on their own sales efforts with limited access to certain markets. By providing a platform and network, we can support them. So that those growers can also raise the profile of their product."
"Opportunities for entrepreneurship in the region. Working together on delicious sustainable food and drink from Limburg soil. Supported by a powerful hallmark."
Health is central
Health is an important issue. "Everyone around us is concerned with health. From the AGF sector, we make sure the products are available. As fresh as possible and at a fair price. For both the grower, the producer, the supplier and also our customer."
Eurofresh as a hub
When asked where Eurofresh will be in 5 years, Pollux replied, "I expect us to be in a new sustainable building here at Fresh Park Venlo. Double the size, because that's what we need. We are one of the key players serving the market, from wholesalers and catering to small supermarkets, farm and vegetable stores.
Eurofresh will be a hub to which growers can bring their produce and from which cash-and-carry customers can draw. But we also want to provide a piece of distribution in Venlo and the surrounding area.
In addition, we participate in various social projects, within education for example. By supplying fresh fruit and vegetables for healthy meals, we are also contributing to a healthier Limburg."
By providing fresh fruit and vegetables for healthy meals, we are also contributing to a healthier Limburg.
Any tips?
"Reflect on what you are already doing and what you are good at. Then look for simple ways to make a difference. Don't make it too hard on yourself. And stay entrepreneurial. By that I mean: don't rush to consultants. Don't focus on grants. Those are tools. It has to come from within yourself. Work with other entrepreneurs for faster results.
Also make sure the money stays in the project. As an entrepreneur, you can see for yourself whether it is financially feasible and realistic. Projects that have a chance of success then often surface naturally."
