Recently, we had the privilege of interviewing, alongside Agrositio, Marcos Berisso, director of Estancias Don Pedro y La Rosa, Grupo EDP Agro, who shared the strategies that have allowed his company not only to stay relevant but also to expand significantly over the past 25 years.
Is it possible to grow in both directions?
Yes, it is possible, but it requires a clear and adaptable strategy. Marcos noted that the key is to have a “north,” a strategic plan that guides the company’s growth but is also flexible enough to adapt to day-to-day circumstances.
In the case of Grupo EDP Agro, the ability to diversify and add value has been fundamental to its expansion. The group has not only grown in its traditional agricultural and livestock activities but has also ventured into agroindustry. Following the drought crisis of 2008-2009, EDP Agro decided to invest in diversification and value creation by establishing an industrial site in Bolívar with a storage plant, a feed plant, and a soybean extruder. This diversification not only strengthened its market position but also made them a key player in the agroindustry.
Strategy and Partnership: The Pillars of Success
Marcos emphasized that the success of Grupo EDP Agro has not been an accident but the result of careful planning and an entrepreneurial spirit embedded in the company’s DNA. Another pillar of EDP Agro’s success has been its focus on partnerships. From the beginning, the group has chosen to grow alongside strategic partners. “Every new growth must come with a partnership model,” Berisso stated.
This story deeply resonates with our own values and practices. At Simpleza, we firmly believe in the power of teamwork and the importance of building strong and lasting relationships, not only within our organization but also with partners and clients. The story of Grupo EDP Agro is a reminder that success in agriculture is not just about what you grow or produce, but also about how you manage, plan, and collaborate.
The Importance of Professionalization and Long-Term Vision
Another key aspect of Grupo EDP Agro’s success has been its focus on professionalizing the company. As the group has grown, so has its team, evolving from a small family operation to a company with over 100 employees. This growth has been accompanied by gradual institutionalization, with a focus on professionalizing key areas and incorporating specialized talent.
This is a very valuable lesson. We must understand that to remain competitive and continue growing, we need to invest in our team and the professionalization of our operations. It’s not just about what we can achieve today, but what we want to build for the future.
Family Unity and Projection for Future Generations
Finally, Marcos highlighted the importance of family unity and planning for future generations. With eight siblings involved in the business and a new generation ranging from 4 to 32 years old, the company is exploring ways to motivate the younger generation to get involved in the business, whether in traditional roles or in new areas like marketing and communication. “We want the next generation to see the company as an opportunity, not a burden,” Berisso stated.
In conclusion, the story of Grupo EDP Agro is an inspiring testament to what can be achieved with solid strategic planning, a focus on diversification, and a strong team spirit. It offers valuable lessons on how to manage growth in a dynamic environment like agriculture.
