Romanian cooperatives impressed by Dutch best practices

In November 2025, more than 30 cooperatives affiliated with the Romanian National Branch Union of Cooperatives in the Vegetable Sector (UNCSV) visited the Netherlands.
Inspired by the country’s rich tradition of cooperative entrepreneurship, the delegation gained valuable new insights into strategic growth and long-term development. Most Romanian cooperatives operating in the arable crops sector are relatively recently established and are still working to strengthen their organizational foundations and market positions.

 

To support its members in becoming more business-oriented and market-driven, UNCSV initiated a project through the European Erasmus+ programme. As one of the project partners, HollandDoor hosted an intensive, week-long study visit for more than 40 chairpersons, board members and operational staff from these Romanian cooperatives. Participants explored both the historical roots and modern practices of the Dutch cooperative sector.

 

The programme included visits to leading organizations such as Potato Next, Agrico, Rabobank, ABZ De Samenwerking, Cosun and FarmPlus. The agenda covered key elements of successful cooperative management, governance, financial sustainability, strategies for attracting new members, as well as marketing, branding and improving domestic and international sales performance. The visit provided valuable lessons and inspiration to help the Romanian cooperatives strengthen their capabilities and accelerate their development.

 

Highlights and outcomes from the week are summarized in a feature video and summary by TV Agro.

 

For more information, please contact Jos Leeters

 

 

 

 

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