Interview: Gabriela Ley Vela – Del Campo y Asociados
1. Would you mind sharing with us a bit of your professional background?
My first job was at Diaz Salazar y Asociados, a law firm and notary public, where I worked for about a year. This experience allowed me to start my understanding of the practical use of my degree in the workplace.
Later, I joined Del Campo y Asociados, where I remained for two years in the HR area. Other than my main duties, I assisted in reviewing contracts and became involved in the negotiation processes of the company. I also obtained comprehensive knowledge of its organizational structure and, especially, of the production process for the crops we were working with during that time.
Between 2015 and 2020, I started my own project with a partner and friend: a company engaged in the sale of furniture and remodeling and decoration of spaces. This stage represented a total entrepreneurial experience, from the legal incorporation of the company to its administration and commercial management.
In 2022, I returned to Del Campo y Asociados, this time to join the Legal and Management area, where I continue developing my professional career to this day.
2. What has it been like working in a third-generation family business? What have been the main challenges you have faced?
Working at Del Campo has been special because it is a business my father started, and with the support of his siblings, they have preserved that working relationship as a family group to this day. I have always felt part of the development of the company because, even if it was not my job that sustained that growth, it has been a part of my life.
Speaking of the family business itself, in my case, it is the product of all the efforts being preserved and the cooperation to be able to maintain this unity that has transcended for over a generation. Having the experience of not only being part of the family but also being able to cooperate in the growth of what we want as a group, I take it very proudly as a responsibility and hope that it will benefit all my efforts.
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There have been challenges, but I think just as any other company. They do not necessarily need to come from a family business. I like the idea of sharing with those in the same situation as me, such as employees or owners of the company. It is up to me whether I focus on maintaining that balance; I am the one who must satisfy the responsibility of being clear about where I stand.
3. What philosophy and core values do you believe make Del Campo a strong company?
The company is characterized by its commitment to quality, excellence, and constant innovation; the leading core values are: integrity, teamwork, quality, respect, and responsibility.
All the actions taken by Del Campo y Asociados, ranging from customer service to environmental responsibility, and the code of ethics; serve as a guideline for future company development, both internally and in its external relations.
4. What are the main fresh products you sale?
We have varieties of tomatoes and blueberries.
5. To which other destinations do you export your products?
We mostly export to the US and Canada.
6. How important do you think sustainability is in the farming industry, and what are the main actions developed by Del Campo y Asociados in this matter?
For sustainability to be effectively achieved, a balance must exist between meeting current needs and considering future needs. Both the farming industry and any other productive sector must make a firm commitment to this balance. Sustainability must be understood as a form of development, and in order to achieve the goals set, it is essential to promote and demand collective responsibility across the entire industry.
At Del Campo, we have implemented solar panels in key facilities and 100% of our lighting to optimize energy consumption with LED lamps.
We are actively participating in recycling programs, ensure the safe disposal of agrochemical containers, and collaborate with initiatives such as Campo Limpio to minimize our environmental impact.
We adopt agroforestry systems, diversify crops, and use plant cover, as well as implementing disinfection and water collecting systems. Water management helps us foster biodiversity and improve soil health in our operations.
We prioritize the well-being of our employees by offering housing, access to medical service and medications, daycare facilities, education for their children, and 24/7 security. We have certifications that endorse our social and environmental performance.
We conduct environmental impact analyses, establish clear sustainability goals, maintain strong work ethics, promote non-discrimination, and have reporting mechanisms to ensure a fair and transparent work environment.
7. How do you think consumer expectations have changed over the last 10 years, leading them to place more value on their purchase?
Due to changes in consumer habits, access to information, and a greater awareness of health, the environment, and sustainability, consumers have become more informed and demanding. Consumers value aspects such as the origin, quality, and environmental impact of a product, making it difficult for them to be easily misled about what they are purchasing.
One of the most noticeable changes has been the transformation in the way vegetables are presented. It is increasingly common to find them pre-washed, pre-cut, or ready-to-eat, responding to the accelerated pace of life of consumers who seek convenience and efficiency in their purchasing decisions.
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The development of more efficient distribution channels has allowed access to a variety of products that were previously unavailable. The value of immediately obtaining what one seeks has become a determining factor in the purchasing experience. We have become accustomed to constant availability, regardless of seasonality or the place of origin of the product.
8. How important do you think the Mexican farming industry is to the fresh produce industry in the US?
It is of utmost importance; Mexico grows a large quantity of farming products consumed in the US, whether from Mexican or foreign growers who have invested in the country. Also, Mexico imports products from the US.
These two industries complement each other; there is bilateral trade, and both economies benefit from this. The demand for these products is increasing, and both countries are driving investment to growers. Besides the farming industry, other industry that benefits from this is the tech industry, and this growing investment leads us to a more advanced and sustainable industry.
9. How relevant is the port of Nogales, AZ for the fresh produce trade from Mexico in the US?
Nogales has an exceptionally large number of distributors and cold storage centers, or cold warehouses. It is a key border crossing for the entry of Mexican products into northern countries.
It is a strategic logistical location with infrastructure and specialized personnel in marketing, and the large volume and value on the product they manage allows for a fluid supply.
10. What is the impact that food safety and social responsibility have on industry, and how has it changed over the years?
The issue of food safety has been evolving in the industry for many years, and customers and buyers themselves have set very high standards for Mexican products to achieve the position they currently hold. Mexico has a fairly competitive quality standard, and the standards imposed by both Mexico and other countries have undoubtedly provided growers with a way to improve themselves year after year.
11. In your opinion, what are the main trends that will influence the industry in the coming years?
The influence of green policies, so to speak, tech innovation, and the growing demand for products will be the combination we must look forward to, in order to achieve the desired goals in our industry. We will see increasing regenerative farming practices, promotion of chemical reduction, and soil restoration. Digitalization to optimize and streamline irrigation, fertilization, crop monitoring, and automation.
The implementation of closed systems to allow year-round cultivation, especially in countries with significant urbanization, the need arises for vertical farming, hydroponics, or innovations for specific needs.
We also face challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, soil erosion, wearing away of land, or the gap in tech adoption, either because the cost is too high and there is not enough investment to afford it.
12. Anything else you would like to add?
Thank you, the interview was very thorough and made me think about the future of the company, in order to make improvements and above all, pursuing permanence.
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