Food Chain - Issue 207 - August 2025 | Page 123

______________________________________________________________________________________
Hardeman
Egg Group farming operations; having more plants, for instance, has given us greater processing capacity,” Ton shares.“ On the farming side, we have farms that are 100 percent owned by our own people, but we also form partnerships with farmers who are external to the business. We invest in young farmers who might not be able to afford their own farm, and we form co-ownership deals over time. We also have two farms in Ethiopia, which is great because it generates money for the farmers, creates jobs for the communities and provides a sufficient food supply for them. In this way, we give people opportunities to take advantage of possibilities that would be almost impossible for them to achieve without outside help.
“ Without farmers, you don’ t have eggs; it’ s very simple. We’ re always looking into market areas where there are opportunities for us to grow. Advantageously, our owner is a multi-entrepreneur, so he constantly reinvests profits across his companies to generate growth.”
Robust relationships
As Hardeman continues to grow and prosper, it proceeds to nurture the working relationships it holds dear. The company views its partners as essential shareholders in many ways, extending appreciation to all those who help make Hardeman an industry leader – from its owner who reinvests in the business to the farmers that make it all happen.
“ Our company has several shareholders in many ways. One of our most important shareholders is the company owner of course, but our farmers are also essential shareholders. We have our own farms, but we also have relationships with farmers who work independently from us. It’ s important to maintain good relationships with farmers because they are the ones who can contribute to better animal welfare, as well as our own sustainability goals,” Ton explains. foodchainmagazine. com 123