Was it destiny that led Maria Adamopoulou to the seed industry and Hazera? It certainly seems so.
Raised around her grandparents’ grocery store in Athens, she grew up watching them source fresh vegetables from the central market at dawn. These early experiences sparked a lifelong connection to fresh produce. After earning her degrees in agronomy, Maria initially considered a PhD but chose a different path after marrying an agronomist who represented Bejo in Greece. Following his sudden passing 12 years ago, she returned to her roots and founded a fresh vegetable distribution company, working closely with growers, traders, and retailers. In 2019, her industry expertise led Hazera Hellas to bring her on board. Today, she holds a dual role in Product Development for Lettuce and Brassicas, as well as Fresh Market Specialist.
How does Hazera’s brand story have an impact on your day to day?
“Hazera’s brand story inspires me every day. With the support of a dedicated team and high-yielding products, I start each morning motivated and confident. Whether I’m in the field or at the office, I’m driven by a shared commitment to our customers and the feeling that we’re growing together.”
Can you share a project when you felt this pillar in action?
“Two years ago, I met the owner of a hydroponic greenhouse, who was new to the agriculture business at that time. After two years of failed tomato production, he didn’t want to hear about hybrids anymore. However, through ongoing visits and discussions with him, we uncovered the real issue: he was growing hybrids based on trader demands, without knowing his greenhouse was contaminated with ToBRFV. The varieties he used had no tolerance, leading to constant crop failures. The following season, he decided to try Lollipop—and everything changed. No diseases, excellent taste, beautiful shape and color, and most importantly, high yield and profits. Moments like these remind me why I’m proud to be part of a team that delivers real solutions. It’s a pleasure and a privilege to work with a company that offers not just products, but confidence and support every step of the way.”
What motivates you most about being part of this Hazera’s journey?
“Over the past six years, building strong relationships with growers and customers has brought me immense personal fulfillment. This motivates me to continuously improve and strengthen our collaboration, grounded in mutual trust and the expertise we provide. It can be challenging when I encounter a dissatisfied growers or customer, but my goal is to apply my knowledge and experience to address these concerns and, over time, turn the situation into a fruitful, lasting relationship.”
What excites you the most about Hazera’s future?
“I feel confident to be a member of Hazera. What excites me most is the prospects that are offered with Hazera’s innovative and dynamic R&D programs: products that will be on the top list of choices for our growers. We offer hybrids in the market with the purpose to combine quality, performance, and solutions to diseases and other problems that constantly arise in the growers’ everyday life.”
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