But it is in the middle of the hills that he chose to set up his factory and his company, which has grown over the decades from 3 to 49 employees. Without making a big deal, Émeric Cadalen, his son, who took over at the head of the structure, explains the longevity of Fruit Gourmet by its adaptation to markets and changes in consumption.
“We try to create ranges that embrace the riches of Lot-et-Garonne”
With local gems
“Lot-et-Garonne has a multitude of productions, from hazelnuts grown near Castelmoron-sur-Lot to almonds from Coulx, including golden apples from the Verger des trois Coteaux de Seyches, just 12 kilometers from here. We try to create ranges that embrace these riches, such as roasted hazelnuts or fat-free apple chips,” lists Émeric Cadalen.
Today, through its brands, Fruit Gourmet supplies both delicatessens and manufacturers. The best-seller of the 20,000 tonnes produced each year? Dried apricot in a bag, even if it is more the pieces of pears or bananas that delight the Cémoi group, or the Swiss chocolatiers.
The hazelnuts are roasted in bins.
Loïc Déquier / SO
Exports also represent 25% of the company's turnover. Those most fond of “this French quality” are Switzerland, Japan, Canada, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands. In France, one of its main agri-food clients is the Bel group. Fruit Gourmet supplies him with fig nuggets, which are found in the famous Boursin cheese. These pieces of fruit can also be enjoyed in the meats of Ma Brochette or Bigard.
Over the past year, the brand has also launched into beer, with 3,000 liters sold. It is produced from hops grown in Allemans, then brewed in Gironde.
