VDH Products Celebrates Strategic Partnership with PSW Agro Consulting

Peter Steltenpool has been active in the export of potatoes, vegetables, and fruit throughout his entire life, focusing primarily on Central and Eastern European countries. When the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, he became the first Dutch exporter to enter the former GDR, recognizing the opportunities it presented. This marked the beginning of a major leap forward, as he expanded into countries such as the Czech Republic and the Baltic States. 

All the knowledge and experience Peter Steltenpool has gained over the years is now shared through his own company, PSW Agro Consulting. 

The Right Connections

Peter Steltenpool of PSW Agro Consulting has built a vast network in the fresh produce sector, and he is eager to help other entrepreneurs:

"Anyone who says, 'We want to improve,' is welcome. I can connect the right people." 

PSW Agro Consulting offers you knowledge and expertise in the following areas:

• Cultivation of potatoes, vegetables, and fruit  
• Storage, cooling, and ventilation  
• Marketing and trade
• Networking and relationships

Higher Yield per Hectare

Peter Steltenpool operates out of West Friesland.

"This region is known as Seed Valley, where a lot is happening in open-field cultivation. It’s truly state-of-the-art. Take cabbage cultivation, for example. At the end of the last century, we harvested 90 tons per hectare. Now, that has increased to 125 tons. This improvement is due to better soil management and smarter combinations of crops and soil. With this knowledge, I can help farmers in other countries increase their yields to a higher level as well." 

Better Seeds and Seed Potatoes

As the name suggests, Seed Valley is the center of innovation in seed breeding. Peter Steltenpool shares the latest knowledge on seeds and seed potatoes with farmers around the world.

“For example, I might say, I’ll introduce you to a supplier of organic seeds for your carrots or onions. Or: I know a supplier of seed potatoes that will perform much better in your soil. That’s my mission: to be the connecting factor, to examine the entire cultivation process closely, and turn all these elements into a great success story.”

The Ideal Storage Climate

Storing potatoes, vegetables, and fruit is a critical success factor for the industry. While it may seem like a matter of technology, systems, and controls, Peter Steltenpool has his approach.

“I’m not a technician, I don’t set the parameters. But I’ve been in the fresh produce sector for quite some time, and I’ve seen many storage facilities from the inside. This experience allows me to advise clients on the best storage methods.

Often, businesses choose one large storage room, but it’s better to opt for several smaller ones. That way, you can create the ideal climate for each crop. A tomato is stored differently than a potato or a carrot.”

From Field to Market

Peter Steltenpool has traveled extensively, met many people, and engaged in significant trade, which has helped grow his network. His contact list is full of valuable connections.

“For instance, I have a list of contacts from all the major supermarket chains in Europe, sorted by country.”

Through its collaboration with PSW Agro Consulting, VDH Products can now offer clients access to various markets. This fits VDH's ambitions to provide not just systems, but also knowledge, experience, and network access. From field to market, VDH covers the entire supply chain.

VDH Products: From Supplier to Knowledge Partner

Jacco Smid, Sales Manager at VDH Products, is pleased with the partnership with PSW Agro Consulting.

“At VDH, we aim to help clients achieve better results. We provide high-quality measurement and control systems, but we also share valuable knowledge on cultivation, storage, and trade.”

PSW Agro Consulting is a valuable partner in this.

“Peter Steltenpool’s extensive network is of great value. He can advise our clients on improving cultivation, storing their harvest, and accessing the market. Peter brings people together across the entire supply chain.”