Private firm Clever Leaves, is currently developing its own program to work with growers close to its cultivation site outside of Bogota. “The quality requirements in terms of the flower is tremendously high – you need significant microbiological testing and to avoid issues with metals and pesticide use – and at the same time your ability to control production is low,” says Andres Fajardo, the company’s CEO. “How can we ask someone to invest $150,000 in half a hectare of greenhouse that meets our specifications? We have no issue sharing a piece of the pie with small growers, but we need to find a model that guarantees quality and consistency under a workable financial model.”
Erika Mondragon / About Author