ECOM Iberica launch! Expanding our presence across Spain & Portugal

We are pleased to announce that ECOM Group is in the process of establishing ECOM Iberica, a new entity based in Valencia, Spain. 

ECOM Iberica will support the development and growth of our business activities across the Iberian region. As a service company operating under the umbrella of EACL, it will play an important role in strengthening our presence and expanding opportunities in this strategic market.

Leading this exciting initiative are Thibault d'Huart, Managing Director ECOM Coffee Europe, and Vicente Ferré Jornet, ECOM Iberica Sales Office Manager (pictured below). The Marketing & Communications team sat down with them to learn more about the vision behind this new venture.

What was the vision behind establishing ECOM Iberica?

Vicente: To strengthen our presence in the growing Spanish and Portuguese markets, where we have major coffee roasters that represent a significant opportunity for ECOM, and where we can bring substantial value to these customers. 

Thibault: Having a Sale Office dedicated to the Iberian market allows ECOM to bring offers to specific customers with adapted messages and marketing. Global customers can be served from anywhere, while local customers need to be served by an experienced local team.

Why was Valencia chosen as the location for the new office?

Vicente: Barcelona and Valencia have traditionally been the main ports through which coffee has been imported into Spain. In recent years, however, increasing volumes have been imported through other ports such as Vigo and Gijón, mainly due to the geographical proximity they offer to certain customers.

Thanks to its geographical location, Valencia serves as an excellent logistic distribution hub that can efficiently supply customers throughout Spain. In addition, having our office based in Valencia makes it much easier to visit the warehouse and inspect specific lots whenever necessary. 

Thibault: We also know that other commodities trade houses tend to set their Spanish office in Valencia, which feeds the labour market with experience.

What opportunities do you see for ECOM in the Iberian coffee market?

Vicente: ECOM, thanks to its structure and global network, is able to offer a wide variety of coffees from origin as well as spot coffees available in Europe– something not all other competitors are able to provide. I believe the customer will recognize this over time and appreciate the advantages and added value that ECOM can bring to their business.

Thibault: Many local roasters had not previously been approached by ECOM due to our lack of presence on this market.

Looking ahead, what would success for ECOM Iberica look like in one year's time?

Vicente: Bringing across all the clients I've always worked with, ensuring customers recognise how we stand out from our competitors thanks to the added value we provide as a supplier, and maintaining regular, strong relationships with key customers while hitting our volume target for the first year.