Global demand for Optimo ripening rooms is on the rise

Interko, renowned for its cutting-edge fruit ripening rooms, is experiencing a sharp rise in demand for its cost-effective Optimo model, with over 30 installations in progress globally. Recent projects include 10 rooms for Grand Frais in the Netherlands, 4 in Aruba for bananas, 2 in Kenya, 4 in Asia for avocados, and 3 in Portugal.

According to Managing Director Chris Maat, the Optimo room is perfect for ripeners seeking an affordable and flexible solution, offering advanced technology and high energy efficiency. Features like optimized airflow and REVERSO 2.0 fans ensure consistent temperature and better fruit quality, outperforming traditional tarp rooms in both results and energy consumption.

Fine Fruit Company, responsible for managing overseas imports for the French supermarket chain Grand Frais, is collaborating with Interko to set up 10 Optimo ripening chambers in the Netherlands for avocados and mangoes.

Almir Dedovic, the Director of Fine Fruit Company, states that given Interko’s proven expertise in refining the fruit ripening process, they were the obvious choice for this project. Their professionalism and personal approach assured them that the Optimo room was the ideal solution for their needs.

Interko’s stellar reputation in the market was a significant factor for Geerlofs, a company specializing in storage and processing systems for fresh produce. Geerlofs is currently involved in installing two Optimo ripening rooms for avocados in Kenya.

Likewise, Compra Aruba, one of the largest suppliers of food and non-food products in Aruba, selected Interko after being impressed by their cutting-edge ripening technology. 

For nearly six decades, Interko has been one of the pioneers in ripening technology. Constantly innovating, their team of expert engineers continues to enhance their range of ripening rooms. A recent upgrade to the Optimo room includes the addition of stainless-steel drip trays, improving durability and extending the product's lifespan.

The Optimo room arrives pre-equipped with Interko’s state-of-the-art technology, allowing for quick installation and flawless ripening. To streamline the process further, Interko has introduced interactive installation and user manuals, which are available in digital format.

Optimo is a versatile and cost-efficient system that can ripen between 8 and 24 pallets of bananas, avocados, or mangoes, and supports various pallet sizes.

This single-level ripening room can be divided into four separate zones, each equipped with its own cooler and air guidance system. This design allows operators to manage each zone independently, offering the flexibility to adjust based on market demands, ultimately conserving energy and lowering operational expenses.

Send your inquiry to book a free consultation with Interko, either on-site, remotely, or during the Fruit Attraction 2024 trade show, taking place from October 8-10, 2024. Interko will be co-exhibiting with Fresh Produce Instruments in Hall 6, Stand E16A.

Chris Maat (Managing Director and Partner) and Narcís Guinart (Project Manager), both fluent in Spanish, will be available throughout the three-day event in Madrid, Spain, accompanied by Anna Zegveld (Sales Director).