Verde ao Longe, Lda.: the story behind a bet on kiwi growing

The story of Sociedade Agrícola Verde ao Longe, Lda. is marked by the strategic vision of those who know the land and know how to listen to what it asks for. With deep roots in grape growing in the Varziela area of Felgueiras, and farming activity spread across several parts of the country, Miguel Campilho and Manuel D'Orey Campilho had for some time been looking for a new opportunity to diversify and strengthen the sustainability of their operation.

"The idea was always to mitigate risk by splitting production between two crops with different harvest seasons," explains Manuel D'Orey Campilho, the company's manager. "We wanted to guarantee profitability and at the same time keep the local workforce employed, since they are highly experienced in both crops."

Kiwi growing proved to be the right choice. Conditions in the region, coupled with a strong presence of experienced growers, made for a favourable setting in which to establish a new production area. Even so, aware of the technical demands of the crop, the company decided from the outset to surround itself with the right partners.

It was in this context that the collaboration with Espaço Visual came about. The initial contact happened naturally, thanks to the company's established reputation in the region. The relationship quickly grew stronger, built on rigorous technical support and close working ties.

"It is a very demanding crop, so we wanted to do things properly from the start. We brought in Eng. Pedro Lamas Martins, who has a deep knowledge of kiwi growing and of the region. It was also he who introduced us to Espaço Visual," says Manuel D'Orey Campilho. "The team has always shown professionalism and availability, and that relationship continues today".

The project began with an area of 8 hectares, with the possibility of growing to 10 hectares. Once the PDR 2020 application was approved, the slowest phase followed: dealing with the bureaucracy.

"Bodies such as REN, RAN, CCDR, APA or the banks seem to ignore the reality on the ground and the urgency of these projects. The lack of coordination between them turns a business owner's life into a real ordeal. Only the most persistent make it through."

Despite the obstacles, the project went ahead. And Espaço Visual continues to walk alongside Verde ao Longe. It has been a journey made up of technical decisions, but also of people. And Manuel does not forget who was there at the decisive moments.

Now, with the first steps taken, a new stage begins. It is a phase in which unpredictable weather, production management and market dynamics call for knowledge, dedication and the ability to adapt. This "open-air industry", as Manuel so aptly describes it, is made up of daily challenges.

At Espaço Visual, we are proud to continue supporting companies like Verde ao Longe. Stories like this one remind us why we do what we do: helping those who work the land to grow with security, knowledge and an eye on the future.