A bond that grows over time
Over the years, Smarties.bio has built a strong and inspiring relationship with the Austrian market, based on shared values such as sustainability, varietal research, production quality, and the promotion of organic culture. This bond has been strengthened through numerous meetings, company visits, and international events, enabling a continuous exchange of knowledge, experience, and innovation. From the very beginning of the collaboration, there have been many opportunities to meet both in Italy and Austria. Austrian partners have visited the company several times, taking part in field days, varietal trials, and technical discussions. Likewise, Smarties.bio has frequently been a guest in Austria, participating in events dedicated to horticulture, biodiversity, and sustainable food systems.
All this perfectly embodies our Seed&Service vision.
Visits to Italy: biodiversity, cultural exchange, and sustainable agriculture
The collaboration with Andrea Pölz of the Lower Austrian Chamber of Agriculture made it possible to organize several visits to Italy, during which delegations of technicians, researchers, and professional growers were hosted by Smarties.bio to experience the company’s work firsthand.
On one occasion, the day focused on agricultural biodiversity, including a visit to the "Il Biancospino" farm of Franco Zecchinato (founding member of Coop El Tamiso). Participants explored the importance of varietal conservation, agroforestry, and the cultivation of traditional vegetables. The visit represented a key moment of exchange, where experiences related to organic farming, the protection of local varieties, and the development of increasingly sustainable agricultural systems were shared. The group later enjoyed a convivial lunch hosted by the Società Cooperativa Sociale Agricola Caresà (also associated with Coop El Tamiso), an organization combining organic agriculture, social inclusion, and high-quality organic production—fully aligned with the shared values of Smarties.bio and its Austrian partners.
One of the most significant moments of this collaboration took place on November 27–28, 2025, in Vienna. The company was invited by Wolfgang Palme (Head of the Horticulture Department at the Federal College and Research Institute for Horticulture “Schönbrunn” in Vienna) to participate in the event Endivie, Radicchio & Co – Die Vielfalt der Zichorien, a full day dedicated to chicories and endives.
The meeting, held in Vienna, offered a rich technical and cultural program, with insights into the cultivation, history, and multiple uses of these traditional vegetables.
During the day:
- guided tastings of characteristic varieties were led by the renowned Austrian chef Johann Reisinger, pioneer of natural and sustainable cuisine and leading figure of the “new green cuisine” and the Slow Food movement in Austria
- practical presentations on cultivation techniques
- expert talks on organoleptic qualities
- culinary demonstrations showing how bitter compounds can enrich dishes with depth and complexity
The focus was on specialized expertise related to varieties, cultivation, and gastronomic uses, highlighting the extraordinary diversity and value of chicories in professional horticulture.
Participants gained a comprehensive overview of cultivated varieties, processing techniques, and the characteristics determining aroma, quality, and typicity.
On this occasion, our Andrea played a leading role, bringing Smarties.bio’s direct experience in varietal selection and the enhancement of organic chicories.
November 28, 2025 – Smarties.bio stand at “All chicory!”
The following day, we participated with our own stand at the event All chicory!, hosted at Markterei Markthalle, a space that for over ten years has connected regional producers and consumers, promoting not only product exchange but also stories, knowledge, and agricultural culture.
During the day, we presented:
- the values guiding Smarties.bio
- our products and cultivated varieties
- our commitment to healthy and sustainable nutrition
- the philosophy that unites organic farming, biodiversity, and environmental respect
The stand became a true meeting point where visitors, producers, and enthusiasts could engage, taste, and learn more about our daily work.
Successful partnership
Of particular interest was the visit to our Austrian seed partner Reinsaat, a key reference for Smarties.bio in the local distribution of lettuce, brassica, and chicory seeds. Collaboration with a local partner represents a strategic asset for Smarties.bio, thanks to Reinsaat’s strong territorial presence and solid national reputation.
A collaboration looking to the future
The relationship between Smarties.bio and the Austrian market continues to grow year after year, driven by a shared vision of agriculture as a tool for culture, health, and sustainability. The Vienna events of November 2025, the visits to Italy, and the many moments of exchange represent just some milestones in a shared journey that will continue in the future with new projects, international exchanges, and new opportunities to promote biodiversity and organic agriculture together.