Pomuni CEO Ben Muyshondt Sees the Market for Frozen Products to Grow in Next 3 to 4 Year

In the heartland of Belgium's agricultural sector, Pomuni, a prominent processor of potatoes, has emerged triumphant after facing a barrage of challenges. Despite a tumultuous start marked by the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and raw material crises, the company has navigated through troubled waters to achieve significant success.

In a recent interview with a Dutch publication focused on agriculture, Ben Muyshondt, the CEO of Pomuni, sheds light on the company's journey, offering insights into their strategies and future prospects.

 

Ben Muyshondt, the CEO of Pomuni

Ben Muyshondt:
 

"I see the frozen market continuing to grow in the next three to four years. The changing global consumption pattern continues to drive demand for frozen products. Climate change is a global phenomenon, so if there are crop failures somewhere, we will be able to fill that gap."

Established in 1928 by Jos Muyshondt as a humble venture trading vegetables and fruits in Antwerp's wholesale market, Pomuni has evolved into a stalwart of the potato industry. Over the decades, the company honed its focus on potatoes, eventually diversifying into frozen mashed potato products in the 1990s.

Guided by the Muyshondt siblings - Ben, Nele, and Hans - Pomuni now stands as a fourth-generation family business with a workforce of 200 employees. The cornerstone of Pomuni's recent triumph lies in its state-of-the-art potato factory in Ranst, inaugurated in 2019 with a substantial investment.

This modern facility, which earned the title of 'Factory of the Future,' last year, embodies Pomuni's commitment to innovation and excellence. Automation lies at the heart of the production process, ensuring efficiency while maintaining impeccable quality standards.

Ben Muyshondt:
 

"I still see slight growth opportunities in the coming years. An increase in acreage is possible at the expense of other crops, as long as there is a profitable revenue model behind it. In the long term, of course, there will be no room for improvement. Due to stricter (manure) legislation a shrinkage of the Belgian agricultural area is looming in the long term."

"On the other hand, I still see opportunities in breeding. In that respect, the developments in the field of CRISPR-Cas9 are positive. Europe seems to be opening the door to this technology. With breeding we can develop robust varieties that require less fertilization, have less losses and have a higher yield per hectare."

Ben Muyshondt reminisces on the initial struggles faced by Pomuni, exacerbated by the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent raw material crises. However, resilience and strategic foresight have been instrumental in weathering the storm.

With approximately 1,000 hectares dedicated to potato cultivation, Pomuni has secured a steady supply of raw material, mitigating risks associated with fluctuating market conditions. The success story of Pomuni extends beyond mere survival; it is a testament to adaptability and forward-thinking.

The company's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is reflected in its cultivation practices, which emphasize optimal resource utilization and minimal ecological impact. Pomuni's strong rapport with a network of 20 growers underscores its dedication to fostering mutually beneficial relationships within the agricultural community.

Innovation remains at the forefront of Pomuni's agenda, which is evident by its foray into the frozen food division. By repurposing potatoes unsuitable for the fresh market, Pomuni has diversified its product range to include an array of frozen delicacies, catering to evolving consumer preferences.

Despite the challenges posed by geopolitical events such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict and subsequent fluctuations in energy prices, Pomuni has emerged stronger, propelled by a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Ben Muyshondt:
 

"Among other things, we want to move towards targeted fertilization. In the past, a certain (high) dose was given as standard once, while the soil may not need it. That is why a sample must be taken in advance and then adjusted as needed during cultivation. of the plant with fertilizer."

"There are many measures that we can agree on in the context of the Charter. We put everything on the table. Ideally, there will be a complete system of self-control to supplement and, where possible, replace the restrictive government policy this moment. That works great for food safety, why not for fertilization?"

Looking ahead, Ben Muyshondt envisions sustained growth for Pomuni, particularly in the frozen food division, which accounts for over 80 percent of its production exports. However, he acknowledges the constraints within the table potato market, emphasizing the need for collaboration and innovation to unlock its full potential.

As the newly appointed chairman of Belgapom, the premier association for the Belgian potato trade and processing, Muyshondt is poised to spearhead initiatives aimed at fostering industry-wide collaboration and driving sustainable growth.

Potato sorting at the Pomuni plant in Ranst, Belgium