Sussex-based sweetcorn and exotics specialist Barfoots of Botley haswelcomed the supply of its new ʻgreen beanʼ crop fresh from Senegal.
The products are a key milestone in the companyʼs three-year development plan in the country, which has seen Senegal become a key strategic supply area for the companyʼs exotic program.
James Meers, Barfoots business unit director, said: 'This year, sales of green beans have topped over 30 tons per week, and they continue to grow significantly.
'Senegal makes an ideal operation base, and the company exports the goods via sea freight, which enhances quality and is also more carbon friendly. The climate in the country is ideal for growing crops, with bright sunshine and long days.'
The company, which also grows crops across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Sussex, relies on its farm operation in Senegal during the UK's winter months to ensure continuity in the supply of exotic vegetable produce for its retail customers.
The main Senegal season runs from November through to May, and sees produce such as sweetcorn, butternut squash, asparagus, sweet potato, chillies and legumes supplied through the Barfoots business to UK supermarkets and wholesalers.
