Insights on the Seed and Fertilizer Business
In the latest episode of the podcast “Business Conversations,” we explore the dynamics of making a living from selling seeds and fertilizers. Our guest is Ognen Orovchanec, the owner of Agrounia, a company specializing in seed products and fertilizers that has been active in the market for 35 years. Orovchanec represents a group of Macedonian entrepreneurs who have woven successful business narratives in the region.
The Journey of Agrounia
Founded in 1989, Agrounia is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. Orovchanec shares that agriculture in Macedonia has the potential to yield substantial returns, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands of euros. He emphasizes that while he hasn’t personally amassed wealth over the years, the company has established itself as a serious player in the industry. “We have a warehouse spanning 2,500 square meters, an office, retail outlets, and a fleet of vehicles,” he remarks.
The Financial Landscape
Orovchanec mentions that there is significant revenue generated from the sale of seeds and fertilizers, but he points out that 40% of the market remains in the shadows of the informal economy. When asked about potential earnings in agriculture, he confidently states that the sky is the limit. He elaborates on the company’s earnings, noting that they range from two to six million euros, highlighting that in previous years, profits were even higher.
Challenges in the Workforce
However, Orovchanec faces challenges in finding workers. “There are no people willing to work. Young individuals are not interested in employment,” he explains. Despite offering competitive salaries, such as 50,000 denars for tractor operators, he struggles to find candidates. He adds that shepherds are nearly impossible to come by, even with salaries exceeding 1,000 euros. His insights reflect the current state of the labor market in agriculture during the “Business Conversations” podcast.
