BelOrta is one of the largest and most dynamic agricultural cooperatives in Europe, specializing in the auction, marketing, and export of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Headquartered in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium, the cooperative represents over 950 growers and processes more than 500 million units of fresh produce annually, making it a cornerstone of Belgian horticulture.
Organizational Structure and Cooperative Model
BelOrta operates under a grower-owned cooperative model, meaning:
- Each member is a shareholder and stakeholder in the organization.
- Revenue is redistributed to growers based on transparent pricing and volumes.
- The cooperative provides shared access to logistics, sales, packaging, and quality control infrastructure.
BelOrta is also the successor of several regional cooperatives and auctions that merged, giving it unmatched scale in Belgium’s fresh produce market.
Product Portfolio
BelOrta offers one of the broadest assortments in Europe, encompassing:
Fruits:
- Top Fruits: Apples (Jonagold, Kanzi®, Greenstar), Pears (Conference, Sweet Sensation)
- Soft Fruits: Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, Blackberries
- Cherries, Grapes, Melons, and more
Vegetables:
- Tomatoes (various types including vine, cherry, plum)
- Lettuce and leafy greens
- Mushrooms, Chicory
- Asparagus, Leeks, Cabbage
- Beans, Peas, Carrots, Onions, Cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
- Zucchini, Cucumbers, Spinach, Celery
Herbs:
- Basil, Coriander, Chives, Dill, Mint, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme
Organic Produce:
- A complete range of organically certified fruit and vegetables under EU Organic and Biogarantie standards
BelOrta's daily auctions handle more than 170 product types, processed and distributed under strict temperature and hygiene controls.
Auction and Sales Infrastructure
BelOrta utilizes a modern electronic auction system (clock auction), backed by:
- 24/7 cold chain logistics
- Fully automated grading, packing, and labeling lines
- Custom packaging and private label services for retail and foodservice clients
- Traceability systems that track products from field to fork
This system ensures transparent pricing and allows buyers to participate on-site or remotely via digital auction portals.
Export Reach and Market Access
BelOrta exports fresh produce to over 30 countries worldwide, covering:
- Western and Eastern Europe
- Scandinavia
- The Middle East
- North America
- Asia, including China and Japan
Approximately 55% of BelOrta’s volume is exported, demonstrating its crucial role in Belgium’s agri-export economy.
Key Statistics
- Over 950 growers affiliated
- More than 500 million consumer units traded annually
- 170+ product categories
- 55% of total volume destined for export
- EUR 400+ million in annual turnover
Quality and Certifications
BelOrta upholds the highest food safety and sustainability standards, including:
- GlobalG.A.P.
- IFS Food
- BRC
- QS (Quality Scheme for Food - Germany)
- EU Organic / Biogarantie
- Vegaplan and Flandria label compliance for sustainability
The cooperative is also deeply engaged in integrated pest management (IPM), water-saving irrigation systems, and packaging waste reduction initiatives.
Strategic Branding and Innovation
BelOrta supports both generic and branded produce strategies. Key brands include:
- Kanzi® – Premium apple with global recognition
- Conference – Belgium’s flagship pear variety
- Sweet Sensation® – Aromatic red pear with protected designation
The cooperative also supports R&D for new fruit varieties, greenhouse tech, and precision agriculture solutions that improve productivity and reduce inputs.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
BelOrta has committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is actively working on:
- CO2-neutral logistics hubs
- Biodiversity-friendly farming
- Organic growth strategy, with increasing member participation
- Transition to recyclable and compostable packaging
Strategic Partnerships
BelOrta collaborates with:
- Retailers across the EU for direct shelf-ready programs
- Export agencies such as VLAM (Flanders Agricultural Marketing Board)
- Universities and research institutions for sustainability and varietal innovation
Major Achievements
- Successfully merged multiple Belgian auctions into one cohesive brand
- Became Europe’s largest fruit and vegetable cooperative by variety
- Developed award-winning private label and branded produce programs
- Recognized by international retailers for reliability, quality, and service excellence
BelOrta continues to drive the evolution of Europe’s horticultural landscape through cooperative strength, technological advancement, and a steadfast commitment to quality, traceability, and environmental responsibility.
