Sixteen years ago, Thomas Bos arrived in Spain, intending to stay just a year. Since then, 15 years have been added. And Thomas's company, Thomasol, supports wholesalers, retailers, importers, and exporters with the buying and selling of Spanish fruit and vegetables. This is done from the Spanish city of Alicante.
"Fifteen years ago, as an 'agent', you were sometimes accused of costing companies money. That image has since been nicely adjusted. Companies realize you can earn money for them," Bos says.
"I now have a reputable network of suppliers from practically all of Spain's production regions. My focus is on a good, personal - often familiar - relationship with growers. We have had trade partnerships with many of our suppliers and clients for years now."
That becomes evident when we meet at one of Thomasol's fixed suppliers, this time in Murcia. We were well-received and were taken on a tour. It was notable that Thomas could walk around freely and arrange things.
"My task is to connect suppliers to the correct end client. I know the people and the culture. This allows me to make deals," says Thomas. He employs three people. "Since we are based in Spain, we can regularly visit our suppliers. In this way, we know everything about the products they cultivate. I can drive to Almeria and back in one day."
Clarity and fixed agreements
"If there is a worldwide shortage of iceberg lettuce, I also cannot supply this product. I do not consider it my task to fill structural gaps. However, if, during a season, a client wants four pallets delivered on a Monday and Tuesday, and six on Thursdays and Fridays, we arrange that. "
"I like clarity and fixed agreements. That is also how we work with our suppliers and buyers - based on a fixed weekly, monthly, and seasonal agreements and/or prices. Then everyone knows where they stand. You then experience good and bad moments during the season. But, in the end, everyone is satisfied," explains Thomas.
"I see our main role as being the grease between the cogs. In this case, the cogs are the supplier and clients or vice versa. These can sometimes grind against each other, but a little grease can work wonders." According to Thomas, the Spanish cultivation sector has undergone real professionalization recently.
"Companies that cultivate products without prior arrangements or sales plans are falling by the wayside. However, those with good philosophies continue full steam ahead. Spain is no longer dependent on re-export countries. They have found their way nicely to serving their end clients themselves," Thomas continues.
Thomas is, therefore, often surprised that countries such as the Netherlands have such a low opinion of the Spanish mentality. "Of course, siestas are still the order of the day in many areas. But, when it reaches 30 degrees Celcius in the Netherlands, a hot weather schedule is implemented there. Here, everyone simply continues working."
The Dutchman is not considering leaving Spain any time soon. "My job is my hobby, and life is fantastic here. My wife and kids are also enjoying themselves. You cannot foresee the future, but, for now, we have no plans to move," Thomas concludes.
For more information:
Thomas Bos
Thomasol Gestion SL
C. Venta de la Remuda no. 8
03560 El Campello
Alicante, Spain
Telephone: +34-(0) 669 636 873
info@thomasol.eu
www.thomasol.eu