Derecske Orchard is a family farmland using high-tech and applying diversification, and workshops for all kind of groups.
Derecske Orchard has been operated by Bold Agro Ltd. as a family farmland for over 25 years, applying Responsible Gardening methods for years to produce fruit and vegetables. With reasonable and conscious agricultural practice, they are protecting natural habitat and manage farming process equally which means the garden is a living space and orchard at the same time. By various practices they try to show people the quality of the products and the used technology. So, from the marketing prospective it is important for customers to stick to it more, the products should have a higher recognition, so that people will hold on to the company, as well. Therefore, the company decided to set up a system to show 10.000 people a year what happens at the company. They think they can become a living example not only for consumers, but for the workers of the company and other fruit producers.
They have been trying to extend the activities of the orchard: ‘Gyümölcsös Kalandok’ (Adventures in the orchard) and the Orchard pedagogical Program; opened a restaurant called ‘Almavirág Étterem’ (Apple flower Restaurant) where they serve the meals made from their own processed fruit and the raw materials produced in the region in the form of short supply chain. Furthermore, they plan such establishments which aim is to present their operation in a more effective way with exhibition halls, classrooms and thematic parks to give buzzing experience in a more intensive way.
Resources needed
The separated areas strengthen each other, since they raise the visitors’ attention the different opportunities by applying the consciously connected production processes. By using many programs, they create new workplaces and contribute to a higher qualification level for the local population.
Evidence of success
Recognizing the necessity of widening children general knowledge about agriculture, two programs have been developed for them. The Orchard Pedagogy Program is organized twice a year expecting 2-3 groups from schools and kindergartens a day for 7 weeks. As a result, they can show the orchard and their activities for 4500-5000 children. The Adventures in the orchard is organized in these two seasons during 2-2 weekends. Depending on the weather conditions, about 5-6000 people visit this place.
Difficulties encountered
Besides the public participation, the company still focuses on rather quality than quantity by paying attention to environment protection and employees’ satisfaction. With this in mind, Derecskei Gyümölcsös is trying to keep the balance within each of its segments.
Potential for learning or transfer
Derecske Orchard does its activities and their expansion with the approach of transferability. By paying attention to keeping the best quality, this company contributes to public life as well as environment protection.
Tags: Sustainable, Learning, Food
