Processing at the point of origin: the only way for HPW
When we started HPW, we were a fresh fruit exporter. Our original vision was to develop farms and improve the supply chain. But we quickly realised that exporting fresh fruit alone could not bring about sustainable change. Farmers remained trapped in a cycle where their income was just enough to run their farms - but not enough to invest in improvements or long-term growth.The turning point came when we started to process the fruit directly on site. This change allowed us to provide better support to farmers, make faster and fairer payments and drive real growth. Today, everyone benefits from this model - farmers, employees and the local economy.
Why on-site processing is the only option for us
At HPW, we firmly believe that local processing is the key to a sustainable and resilient value chain - from field to fork. By drying, packaging and exporting finished products directly from Ghana, more value stays in the country and local communities benefit in the long term.
The effects of local processing
1. local processing: more value stays in the country
Our investments in modern fruit drying facilities in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire have made a ground-breaking difference for HPW and local communities. By processing directly at the point of origin, we maximise added value so that the benefits of production remain in the country.
- 4-fold increase in workforce between 2012 and 2023
- 7-fold growth in export volume over the same period
- Higher wages and better working conditions
- Technology transfer and skills development for local employees
Instead of exporting raw fruits whose processing generates profits elsewhere, we ensure that Ghana and its people benefit directly from every step of production.
2. job creation and fair wages
Processing at the place of origin is not just an economic advantage - it is a social responsibility. By maintaining production in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, HPW has created thousands of stable jobs and provides living wages and career development opportunities.
- Training programmes that help employees advance their careers
- Support for women, including an in-house daycare centre in Ghana
- Fair wages that are well above the national average
These job opportunities strengthen local economies, reduce unemployment rates and offer people a sustainable future in the industry.
3. strengthening local farming communities
By processing locally, HPW can work directly with farmers to improve the quality of raw materials and ensure they meet international standards. Farmers are not just suppliers, but become an integral part of the value chain that rewards quality and consistency.
- Training & education on best agricultural practices
- Increased yields through improved farming methods
- Guaranteed purchase agreements for financial stability
- Reduction of post-harvest losses through improved technology
The result? Higher incomes, increased productivity and less waste - strengthening not only the individual farms, but the entire agricultural industry.
A sustainable future through local processing
For HPW, processing at origin is not just a business decision - it is the only sensible way forward. It allows us to create sustainable value chains, develop local skilled labour and ensure that those who grow and process our fruit benefit the most.
By investing in local technology, infrastructure and labour development, HPW demonstrates that sustainable growth is possible when companies commit to keeping the value where it belongs.