Food Systems of the Middle: AB Épluche Local Produce Processing Facility

AB Épluche is a local vegetable processing facility in Grenoble, established in 2011 by two farmers as part of a public-private partnership initiated in 2015. Originally based in Grenoble, the facility was destroyed by fire in March 2015, leading to a relocation to Moirans. The company sources from 35 suppliers, 95% from Isère, with 40% supplying organic produce. It supplies Mangez Bio Isère and school restaurants, operating under a lease-purchase agreement. Despite efforts to achieve a 4-tonne weekly production target, output peaked at 3 tonnes. Challenges include high prices, seasonal variability, school holidays, and unprofitable partnerships. Governance involves local collectives, emphasizing fair pricing and transparency. Orders require a two-week notice, with a fixed delivery fee of 25€.