OP Natura Dauna

O.P. Natura Dauna is an agricultural cooperative specializing in the production and distribution of high-quality fresh vegetables. Founded in 2012 by agricultural entrepreneur Matteo Sgarro, the organization was established to aggregate production potential and enhance market competitiveness. Sgarro's vision brought together what has now grown to over 120 member farms. In its first year, the co-op was officially recognized as a “Producers Organization” by the Apulia regional authorities, a milestone that provided access to European Community refunds on revenue for its members.

The cooperative's business model is centered on managing the entire supply chain for its members' produce, from cultivation to final distribution. It serves both national and international markets, acting as a key supplier for large-scale distributors and the global frozen food industry. The process involves receiving bulk produce, quality control, cold storage, cleaning, weighing, and packaging before goods are labeled and delivered to wholesalers via refrigerated transport. In July 2025, the company issued a €10 million ESG-linked minibond, underwritten by UniCredit and Mediocredito Centrale and guaranteed by Sace, to finance its new industrial plan aimed at strengthening its position in the frozen food sector and supporting economic development in southern and central Italy.

O.P. Natura Dauna is recognized for its financial and managerial performance, having received the "High Honor of the Budget" at the Industria Felix Awards. The cooperative operates with a strong emphasis on quality, traceability, and sustainability, employing modern cultivation and processing techniques with a low environmental impact.

Keywords: agricultural cooperative, organic vegetables, fresh produce, food distribution, producers organization, supply chain management, frozen food industry, wholesale vegetables, sustainable agriculture, Italian agribusiness