Natura Iblea Sets New Standards for Worker-Friendly Practices and Organic Farming
Natura Iblea, a leader in the production of organic and Demeter crops in Sicily, has seen a remarkable 25 percent increase in turnover for its Sicilian organic carrots. This achievement reflects the company’s commitment to high-quality agricultural practices and exceptional working conditions. In 2024, Natura Iblea was honored with the “Welfare Index Pmi” award for the seventh consecutive year, highlighting its dedication to maintaining an outstanding quality of working life.
Federica Giadone and her brother Andrea proudly accepted the award in Rome on June 13, 2024. This accolade underscores the company’s long-standing reputation for employee welfare and sustainable farming.
Natura Iblea’s president, Roberto Giadone, attributes their success to the company’s robust structure and its specialization in organic farming. Despite challenges such as prolonged drought in Sicily, the company managed to produce 8 million packs of carrots this season, mainly for export across Europe, including countries like Norway, Switzerland, and Serbia.
“Our success is built on a foundation of mutual collaboration with international large-scale retailers,” says Giadone. “Even though the drought increased our production costs, our partners recognized our challenges and increased our remuneration by 25 percent to maintain the highest quality standards.”
Natura Iblea’s commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its substantial investments. The company has allocated 1.4 million euros for expanding a photovoltaic plant and an additional 400 thousand euros for processing lines and refrigerated storage. These investments aim to enhance manufacturing precision, reduce environmental impact, and improve working conditions.
Natura Iblea also promotes a healthy lifestyle among its employees. The company supports a sports association and recently backed a team of runners who participated in the “Tromsø Midnight Sun Marathon” in Norway. This initiative reflects the company’s holistic approach to well-being, extending beyond the workplace to foster community and personal health.
As Giadone emphasizes, “No matter how successful a company may be, it cannot remain static. It must constantly evolve and improve. This is why we continue to invest in sustainable development and product quality. Our focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances our workers’ well-being.”
Natura Iblea’s story is a testament to the fact that success in the agricultural sector does not require sacrificing the quality of working life. Through innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to employee welfare, the company continues to set new benchmarks for the industry.
