Spain: Ridder and Agrocomponentes celebrate 20 years of cooperation

Last weekend a large group with Spanish, Portuguese and Mexican greenhouse builders gathered in Murcia, Spain, to celebrate 20 years of cooperation between Ridder Drives and Agrocomponentes. As well as this, a special presentation was held to introduce the Ridder Poly Drive (RPD) on the Spanish market.

During a cocktail party, the group was welcomed at a nice location in Torre Pacheo last Friday night, followed by presentations on Saturday morning. As all of the partners of the greenhouse builders were invited too, a special program for the ladies was organized in Cartegena. "It was an unique moment having them all together, like a big Spanish family", said Leo Nugteren of Ridder.

On Saturday afternoon it was time to relax, attend the spa and swimming pool or play some holes at the golf course. At Saturday evening it was time for an official dinner to celebrate the cooperation.

How it all began

The foundation of the cooperation between Ridder and Agrocomponentes was laid more than 20 years ago when the first contact was made between Ridder and Jose Albaladejo. "We knew Jose as a good sales manager in the Spanish horticulture sector and we started a cooperation with him in 1991, which is already 25 years ago", said Leo Nugteren. "At that time Jose was on the payroll of 2 companies; Ridder and Ludvig Svensson. I remember how we stocked our parts and motors in the barn of his father. By that time, Jose was not only selling products but also installing the screen installations in the field, not only to make money but also because of his interest in new technology. Agrocomponentes was born and their business growth was strong."

Export to Mexico

In 2005 the Spanish market for horticulture technology in Spain was shrinking and Jose considered to stop with this business. However, Agrocomponentes entered export markets in countries like Mexico, a good decision because this generated strong revenues.

Sadly, Jose Alba Albaladejo passed away at the age of 43 after a plane crash. "This was a tragedy for his family and a loss for all of us", Nugeteren said. "After the loss, we were happy to hear from the family and the management that they continue their business in horticulture."

Nugteren concluded by saying that "Agrocomponentes is a strong company not only known in Spain, Portugal, Mexico and the other Spanish speaking territories, but also around the world. We enjoy the good relationship which will only get stronger in the years to come"

Click here for a photo impression of the celebration last weekend.