Singulars: 1,000 farmers and 400 zero km food stores at prices

At a time when relying on large distributors seems inevitable, a group of entrepreneurs has decided that this must change. The idea? That zero-kilometer food reaches the consumer directly without inflating prices or passing through unknown hands.

With more than 1,000 farmers involved and 400 stores throughout Catalonia, Singulars is much more than a project: it is a movement to regain control of the food chain. But how will they do it? The strategy is not yet entirely clear, but it promises to revolutionize the local market.

Singulars: a new food distribution model in Catalonia

Singulars is born from the desire to eliminate intermediaries who set prices and condition the sale of local food. This project, driven by producers, shopkeepers, and entrepreneurs, uses a non-profit foundation to create its own distribution system. The goal is clear: that local and high-quality products reach small businesses while maintaining fair prices for both producers and consumers.

The role of logistics and the distribution center

Marc Talavera, Singulars coordinator, explains that the initiative will have its own logistics with a distribution hub and a fleet of trucks covering the entire territory. This will allow the 5,000 references in the catalog to reach 400 local stores, facilitating access to zero-kilometer products without extra costs.

A model to support small producers

Gemma Llanes, from Pomona Fruits in Bellpuig, sees Singulars as a lifeline for small producers. Until now, sales went through intermediaries who imposed low prices and caused loss of control over the product. Singulars offers an alternative to maintain the quality and value of the product from the field to the sale.

Challenges and expectations of a growing collective

Overcoming market entry barriers

Roger Prat, owner of Fem Cadena in Tàrrega, explains that one of the main obstacles is meeting the minimum order requirements that large distributors demand. Local producers, who move medium or small volumes, find it difficult to manage a broad assortment without raising prices or making large purchases.

Impact on the Catalan fruit and vegetable market

Currently, only 15% of the fruits and vegetables that arrive at Mercabarna come from Catalonia. Globalization has made access to local products in proximity stores difficult. Singulars aims to reverse this trend, making it easier for more Catalan products to reach consumers at adjusted prices.

The future of Singulars and the change in the food sector

Construction of the logistics center in Prats de Rei

Singulars already has land ready in Prats de Rei, Anoia, where the logistics center that will centralize distribution will be built. With an initial investment of 3.5 million euros, they are in the process of financing part of the project through securities and participatory loans.

Projections and goals for ten years

The project plans to start its activity next year and aims to reach 5% of Catalonia’s food turnover in ten years, consolidating a fair alternative for producers and consumers and strengthening the presence of local foods in the Catalan market.

The Singulars initiative not only wants to sell food but also to recover the dignity of the local product and ensure that small farmers and shopkeepers have a voice and a key role in the food chain. It is an ambitious project that, if successful, could mark a before and after in the way we consume in Catalonia.

For more information on local initiatives and food, you can consult the Latest news and the Latest news of other related projects.