Adrien QUENTEL
“Before I came back to the family farm, I was an accountant and sales assistant. But the desire to become a vegetable producer– like my grandfather, my father and my brother – was stronger,” says Adrien Quentel, based in Brest.
At 32 years of age, Adrien Quentel runs his own company within a family group where he, together with his brother and father, operates 5 hectares of greenhouses and a cogeneration unit. “We grow Cherry and Rubis tomatoes, Cœur-de-Pigeon and bulk flavours. Because at Savéol, taste comes first! ” exclaims the young entrepreneur, proud of his products.
A return to his roots
“The profession has changed enormously”
“Being a vegetable producer is more than just growing tomatoes. The profession has changed enormously,” he notes, recalling his childhood memories. “Today, management is predominant in agriculture, human resources, energy and finance. Success depends on mastering these four key elements. It is complex and exciting.” Adrien is responsible for staff management across the whole site. “Over the year, we employ 30 full-time equivalent employees.” Through his training as a management assistant and his previous professional experience, Adrien has acquired the necessary rigour to plan the organisation of work. “Going to see how things are done elsewhere is always useful before setting up business. ”
“Satisfying the consumers”
Having returned to the family business in 2009, the young man first worked as a seasonal worker. With a view to setting up shop, he resumed his studies and obtained a work-study BTS in horticultural production. “During educational trips, I was able to learn what was happening in Belgium and Holland with regards to greenhouse equipment. The courses also allowed me to complete the agricultural training acquired on the job. For cultivation management, Adrien can draw on the experience of his father and brother. “I am also supported by the technicians from Savéol, who give me very good advice.” For three generations, the Quentel family has remained loyal to the cooperative “to grow quality, delicious products to satisfy consumers. ”