Tell us a few words about yourself. How did you get started? What inspired you to work in the food sector?
I was born on the island of Chios on February 6th, 1992. In 2010, I was admitted to the Democritus University of Thrace, at the School of Agricultural Sciences, in the Department of Rural Development. It was through my studies there that I found the spark for my future path.
Tell us about your raw materials.
All our raw materials are self-produced. We cultivate 15 types of aromatic plants and herbs, including oregano, thyme, rosemary, lavender, chamomile, lemon verbena, lemon balm, pennyroyal, dittany, mountain tea, bay leaves, sage, spearmint, rock samphire, and capers.
In early 2015, through the European Erasmus Program in Lille, France (Université Lille-II), I conducted a research project titled “Can mint extract help reduce juvenile diabetes levels?” which took place at Albert Calmette Hospital in the virology lab.
Later in 2015, I was admitted to the Agricultural University of Athens for my postgraduate studies in the Department of Crop Science, specializing in Agriculture, Plant Breeding, and Agronomic Experimentation.
Tell us about your brand. What does it represent? What was your goal in creating it?
My love for the land of Chios, my desire to protect nature and its plants, and my need to create something meaningful in my hometown led to the founding of Myrovolos Organics.
The brand’s name, Myrovolos, is inspired by the rich and enchanting aromas of the Chian soil.
Myrovolos Organics was founded in October 2015 and operates as a family-run business (cottage industry), focusing on aromatic plants and herbs.
We are based in the village of Chalkios, 7 km from the center of Chios, in the region of Kamposhoria. Our activities include everything from seed planting and cultivation to hand-harvesting—leaf by leaf. From collection to drying (preserving all active compounds), and finally to packaging.
Each of our certified organic herbs reflects the unique aromas of Chios. We started with 10 acres, then expanded to 24, and now cultivate around 40 acres. All our plants come from organically certified nurseries, and our company adheres to organic farming principles at every stage of production (Certified by DIO).
How did you start out? What challenges did you face?
Neither my parents nor my family had any background in the agricultural sector. We began slowly, using 10 acres inherited from my grandparents and started cultivating 8 types of herbs.
The challenges were many—especially in the beginning. The biggest obstacle was financing. When we launched our business in 2015, capital controls were in place in Greece. We approached financial institutions to request a small liquidity loan, but as a newly established company with zero profit, we were denied funding.
Another ongoing issue is networking. Often, we rely on outdated directories to search for potential clients—a time-consuming and inefficient process. If there were an organized platform listing potential buyers, it would be a huge help.
Tell us about your products. What makes them different?
Our products are of exceptional quality. Beyond organic certification, we strictly follow organic methods at every stage. The unique climate and soil conditions of Chios enhance the intrinsic quality of our herbs. After all, these same conditions support the growth of the world-famous mastiha (mastic).
What also sets us apart is that we operate a fully vertically integrated business—from cultivation to processing and packaging. This gives us complete control over our product, from field to shelf.
Can Greek producers make a difference during a crisis?
I believe they absolutely can—if they have top quality, love, and dedication for what they do. Nowadays, a large part of the population is turning toward small producers and local, high-quality products.
Why did you choose to participate in and support the Wise Greece Movement?
I believe Wise Greece is a non-profit initiative that has proven its impact, both in Greece and internationally. From the moment I heard about Wise Greece, I wanted Myrovolos Organics to be part of it.
