Now the managing director of Indian grape exporter Euro Fruits, Nitin Agrawal originally trained to become a commercial pilot.
You have been in the industry for a number of years now. Can you tell us how you first became involved in the fresh produce trade?
NA: I got into grape exports purely by accident, which I do not regret. During a visit to London in 1991 I was introduced to an English importer who was looking to import Indian grapes. I just took this idea home and the rest is history.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the fresh produce business in India?
NA: Indian agriculture is very fragmented, which makes things complicated. But this is also a great opportunity as we work with so many progressive and intelligent farmers. The new generation of farmers are highly advanced and tech-savvy. In the long term, water availability could become a major concern. Euro Fruits is involved in a water sustainability programme.
What is your proudest achievement in your work within the fresh produce business?
NA: For a man who wanted to become a pilot, graduated as a mechanical engineer and finally took up grape exporting after working in a fresh produce packhouse in Europe and learning post-harvest in UC Davis, California, it is of great satisfaction that Euro Fruits has earned such great recognition and reputation.
Describe your typical day-to-day schedule.
NA: I start my day with my favourite newspaper, the Times of India, then take my daughters to college, my wife to the temple, feed the bird, and get ready to go to the office. Being a disciplined and organised character, I always have a detailed list of things to do. I always look for new ideas to keep Euro Fruits at the forefront. I also keep in touch with all my international contacts – even if it is just a simple ‘good morning’ text or email. In the grape harvest season, I station myself at the packhouse days before the first harvest and stay there 24-7 until the last carton is shipped.
Where have you travelled to lately in your job and where are you planning to go next?
NA: I was recently in Europe visiting our wonderful buyers and importers, whom I consider our long-term business partners. My next visit will be to emerging South East Asian countries.
What do you love about your job and what, if anything, would you change?
NA: There is an undying passion in me for this business. I love our interactions with the people in this small fresh produce global village. Race, religion, colour or location may vary, but beneath this all people in fresh produce are the same. The fresh produce business is not for the faint of heart. There is much risk and uncertainty, but then this is what makes it interesting. I believe that fortune favours the bold.
What do you do to unwind after a tough day at work?
NA: I am a family person. I love cooking dinner – it’s my stress-buster – and look forward to a glass of Kingfisher beer when I get home. I listen to old Hindi movie songs a lot and this relaxes my mind.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
NA: My father taught me this golden rule: when you start business always remember from 20-35 years you learn, 35-50 years you earn and 50- plus you return. I am glad that at 47 I am already able to return to society through two major projects in primary health and primary education. This gives me great pleasure and a great feeling of satisfaction.
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