La Torrente Expands Processing Capacity

La Torrente, a third-generation family business and one of Southern Italy's largest canning industries, is set to inaugurate its new processing plant within the next month. This development marks a significant step for the company, especially in terms of technological advancement, as the facility is equipped with latest-generation in-line plants.

The new plant spans 36,000 square meters, with 16,000 square meters under cover. The goal is to increase processing capacity to over 100,000 tons of fresh tomatoes annually within three to four years. This expansion is timed with the upcoming processing campaign for processing tomatoes, which is expected to begin after the first ten days of July in areas near Caserta and later in Calabria. Weather conditions are anticipated to be the primary factor determining overall volumes, with potential slight drops in quantity in regions facing water shortages like Puglia.

La Torrente’s brand offers a wide range of 100% Italian processed tomato products, including about 80 references from over 10 tomato varieties, available in various formats and processes, from whole peeled and puréed to ready-made sauces. The company emphasizes the value of its "Made in Italy" products, focusing on quality, transparency, and sustainability to meet consumer demands. The company currently reports low stock reserves, particularly for puree and diced tomatoes in both horeca and retail 3kg formats.

Regarding raw material sourcing, the framework agreement for central-southern Italy has set an average reference price of €147.50 per metric ton for round tomatoes and €155 per metric ton for long tomatoes, with an additional €42.50 per metric ton for organic varieties. Italy’s northern region sees approximately 42,000 hectares dedicated to round tomato production, while central and southern Italy account for about 34,000-35,000 hectares of long tomatoes.

La Torrente's sales are primarily concentrated in the Italian market (85%), with exports reaching countries such as Spain, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Sweden, the United States, Canada, Japan, and India. The company holds various internationally accredited certifications.

Filippo Torrente emphasized the significance of the expansion, stating, "This is a very important step for the company, especially in terms of technological innovation, as the in-line plants are of the latest generation." The company also has future plans to renovate and modernize its older plant.