Review: Solana exhibits at Potato Europe 2012

On September 12th and 13th, the largest meeting for the European potato sector – the Potato Europe - took place in French Villers-Saint-Christophe, located half-way between Paris, Lille and Reims. The Solana group had its own stand among more than 250 exhibitors from the fields of production, technology, trade, growing, science and research. Trademark of the outdoor event were the numerous dynamic demonstrations showing planting, harvesting and handling. The Solana group was represented by the teams of newly founded subsidiary Solana France SAS as well as the central office from Hamburg and other sales representatives from Germany and abroad. Visitors had the chance to look at a vast display of potato tubers representing the top varieties such as Toscana, Natascha and Princess, and taste different table potatoes freshly prepared at a live-cooking-station.

„We are most satisfied with our performance and the the visitors’ reactions“, says Managing Director Torsten Spill. „This event proved a great opportunity to keep in touch with our international customers and business partners and forge new links.“ Out of 10.000 visitors from over 50 countries, every other guest came from abroad: A great opportunity for the German company to present the newly founded French representation to a large audience. „Yannick Lefèvre, Managing Director of Solana France, has laid the basis for multiplying Solana varieties in considerable dimensions since 2012“, says Spill. Solana France now holds the responsibility for  promotion and commercialisation of varieties in France, Spain, Portugal and Italy. 

Furthermore, the Solana group used the Potato Europe as an occasion to celebrate the founding of the French representation on September 1st, 2012, with customers, farmers and business partners in a fitting surrounding. On the eve of the trade fair, 200 guests gathered at Chateau de Quesmy to enjoy a Summer evening together with the Solana employees. True to the motto „Oktoberfest“, treats such as Bavarian white sausages and Pretzels as well as a live marching band set the perfect frame.