Limonar de Santomera, a leading Spanish cooperative in citrus fruit production, continues its impressive growth, cementing its position as a key player in the European agricultural sector. The company, which specialises in the cultivation and commercialisation of lemons and other citrus fruits, has seen a significant rise in exports, particularly in Germany, where demand has surged by 142% between 2023 and 2024.
Sales have also grown substantially in other major markets, including France (+24%), the Netherlands (+70%), and its home country, Spain (+37%). The cooperative attributes this success to its commitment to sustainable farming and its ability to adapt to the varying demands of each country it serves.
This year, Limonar de Santomera has expanded its production capacity by 55%, reaching a turnover of €58 million. The company now manages 1,300 hectares of citrus crops, a 25% increase from the previous season. In the last year alone, the cooperative produced 63,000 tonnes of citrus, including both conventional and organic varieties. Spain, as the leading citrus producer in the European Union and the sixth largest globally, exports citrus worth an estimated €3.1 billion per season, with Limonar de Santomera playing a prominent role in that market.
Antonio José Moreno, the general manager of Limonar de Santomera, said that the cooperative is particularly focused on expanding its production of organic citrus fruits, which currently account for 40% of its total output. He highlighted the health benefits of citrus, stating, “Citrus fruits are not only useful in preventing cardiovascular diseases and improving circulatory function, but they also provide essential vitamins, help eliminate toxins, and act as powerful bactericides. The World Health Organization recommends their regular consumption.”
The cooperative now dedicates 430 hectares to organic farming, cultivating a wide range of citrus fruits tailored to meet the preferences of various European markets.
Limonar de Santomera is committed to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. The company promotes responsible consumption and focuses on controlled production processes to minimise environmental impact. It has adopted a centralised approach to ensure efficient management across its growing operations.
To further raise its profile, Limonar de Santomera has launched a marketing campaign, “Better with lemon. Mejor de Santomera” (“Better with lemon. Better from Santomera”), aimed at promoting the origin and quality of its products. This initiative coincides with the company’s participation in the prestigious “Fruit Attraction” fair, where it plans to showcase its expanding influence in the European Union, particularly in the German market, and demonstrate its growth in both conventional and organic citrus production.
With its strong focus on sustainability and its growing presence across Europe, Limonar de Santomera is poised to continue leading the citrus industry, bringing fruits “made in Santomera” to consumers across the continent.
Limonar de Santomera currently employs 600 people and aims to further its role as a pioneer in the organic citrus sector, reflecting its ongoing dedication to innovation and high-quality production.
