Their love for the Greek land, combined with high aesthetics, led them to create an exceptional line of products, with the olive tree as their main source of inspiration. Today, we get to know Panagiotis and Tasos from the company Green n Blu through 10 key questions.
Tell us a few things about yourselves. How did you get started? What inspired you to work in the food sector?
Our family has been involved in olive and agricultural product cultivation for decades. As the 4th generation, we decided to take a more organized approach and establish our two brands, Green n Blu and Greek Pony Farm, in order to give our products the value and reputation they truly deserve.
Tell us about the brand. What does it represent? Why did you create it?
The brand Greek Pony Farm was named after our herd of pony horses, which actively contribute to the cultivation of the olive groves by helping with weeding and maintaining the health of the trees in a natural way. The brand Green n Blu comes from “Green” – representing the Greek land and food – and “Blu” – representing the Greek landscape and sea. The name also comes from our family’s store of the same name in Kyparissia, Messinia, which is the first of many to come.
How did you start? What challenges did you face?
It all started four generations ago as a family heritage. Production had its difficulties then and will continue to have them. The economic crisis played a major role in our efforts to implement our development plans in the Greek market, but that doesn’t stop us. Our goals lie ahead and are waiting for us.
Tell us about your products. What makes them different?
The product lines Greek Pony Farm and Green n Blu are the result of careful research into consumer habits in many different countries, combined with traditional recipes, aiming to meet the needs of consumers both in Greece and abroad. Our olive oil, which is our main product, is organic, of exceptional quality, high nutritional value, and rich in polyphenols. What makes our products different is the fact that we have control from A to Z, since we are the producers, the processors, and the distributors.
Tell us about your raw materials.
High-quality raw materials are the secret. Messinia is a blessed land for olive oil. Our raw material benefits from the blessings of this region, our family’s love for our land, and, of course, our olive oil!
Are there any products you particularly highlight?
Each of our products is like a child to us, and as you can imagine, it’s difficult for a parent to choose one over another. We’ve made plans for all of them!
Give us some suggestions for using your products (pairings, usage tips, advice).
First, some tips for organic olive oil: it’s important to store it in a shaded place at a stable temperature. Use it in your cooking and salads. Especially when used raw, you’ll enjoy not only its full flavor but also the valuable characteristics of organic olive oil, making it a powerful ally for your health.
Our olives, on the other hand, are among the most famous in the world, since they come from Kalamata and are also organic. They are harvested and processed one by one by hand, making each olive a flavorful experience.
Of course, our collection wouldn’t be complete without our flavored olive oils! Each flavor is unique and subtle. Add them to your cooking to enjoy the taste of fresh lemon, garlic, oregano, or chili – all infused into our organic olive oil. You’ll love them in cold dishes, and they’re perfect for marinades too!
Recently, we introduced our flavored oils in 100ml bottles, ideal for travelers or for those who want to have a little bit of every flavor at home.
Can Greek producers make a difference during times of crisis?
There are many examples of small producers who have succeeded in elevating Greek products! With a focus on quality and respect for the environment and people, Greek land and its products can overcome the crisis. Of course, the role of the state always carries responsibility.
What challenges does a Greek producer face today?
Greek producers compete against large companies, which makes it difficult to gain market share. Greek consumers need to fall in love with Greek products—and that would certainly be a great start.
Why did you choose to participate in and support the Wise Greece movement?
We believed in the Wise Greece movement—“products for a good cause”! In a unique and simple way, it supports our efforts in the Greek and international markets, while at the same time offering the most valuable good—food—to people who truly need it. Our collaboration wasn’t just a business choice—it was a collective desire and necessity to support this cause. We hope Greek consumers recognize the value of the Wise Greece label!
