The Mačaj family in Slovakia has expanded their vegetable storage capacity despite falling potato prices, investing over €9 million in new facilities to enhance their production.
The Mačaj family, Slovakia's largest domestic potato cultivators, have made a significant investment by expanding their storage facilities, increasing capacity by a third to store 120,000 tons of vegetables. This expansion comes at a time when potato prices are under pressure in European markets due to an abundant harvest coupled with changing consumer preferences favoring healthier diets, leading to decreasing demand for products like fries.
Despite the current challenging market conditions where many farmers are facing losses from potato sales, the Mačaj family remains optimistic about their future growth. Their strategy encompasses not only strengthening their presence in the local market but also expanding into exports to neighboring countries such as Hungary and the Czech Republic. This diversified approach reflects their resilience amid fluctuating market demands and showcases their aim to secure a broader consumer base.
In addition to potatoes, the Mačaj family is also engaged in cattle farming, utilizing manure from their livestock to enrich their fields, thereby supporting their vegetable cultivation. This integrated agricultural approach positions them well for sustainable growth, as they adapt to market trends and consumer behaviors while looking to enhance their productivity and profitability through strategic investments in their operations.
