Site Center, Del Establo, Lote 50 y Del Charro, Quito, Ecuador.
CovEr
Ma. Jose Larretegui
WEbsitE www.pontetresa.com
5 Editor’s LEttEr
Xavier Serrano
6 our story
Why Ponte Tresa?
10 sustAinAbLE prACtiCEs
More about Ponte Tresa’s conscious footprint.
11 About fLorvErdE
Our lastest certification badge!
16 sEtting thE stAndArd high
An insight to our newest varieties available for you.
26 bLossoming futurEs
How we blend community growth and rose cultivation.
30 fAir trAdE tEstimoniAL
Former employee, Jose “Chavito” Inlagos’ inspiring story.
32 WhAt’s nExt?
Learn more about what’s happening the next few months.
EDITOR’S letter
Dear partners & customers,
These past couple of years Ponte Tresa has gone through very important changes, concentrating on fundamentals that will allow us to be profitable and at the same time being truly conscious and aware about the environment and our community. We have implemented; new growing technology, new branding, planting of new exciting varieties, personnel training and strategic planning; all while maintaining our GREEN and SOCIAL DNA intact.
We pride ourselves for being industry leaders in sustainability.
Our next challenge was to figure out a solution to one of the industry’s biggest weaknesses: order fulfillment. As we all know, there area many external and internal factors that affect the production of roses such as weather, diseases, percentage of nonsellable product and more importantly just bad, incorrect production estimates. Unfortunately, the manual-human process of counting and estimating production for the upcoming 4 weeks has always been largely inaccurate. These imprecise estimates end up causing important problems to our customers and to the company, such as: not filling confirmed orders, not pre-selling or pre booking in advance and possibly avoiding a bad open market, not being able to plan post-harvest process efficiently, being too late in responding to customer’s needs, not promoting excess production in advance, not giving the customer timely alternatives if there are problems, etc.
We have been trying to solve the production estimates issue for many years through different procedures and methods, even hiring external statistics experts to help us. All of this without any different or positive results.
Despite the complications, our efforts in having precise estimates never paused. By the end of last year, we decided to let drone technology, IA and algorithms do the work. After extensive time and resources investment, we partnered with a tech company that had the correct vision and people to develop what was needed to have accurate production estimates.
With this technology, drones fly the greenhouses and collect data that later is converted into weekly production estimates. The result: we moved from an absolute error by variety/greenhouse greater than 30%, to an absolute error of less than 8% without any of our employees spending time in counting!
Now, we are eager to see how efficient our packing and selling process becomes and more importantly, the difference in service that we can offer you, our customer.
We are always thinking on how to improve to solve our customers’ needs and demands.
Xavier Serrano
CEO - PONTE TRESA GROUP
WHY pontE trEsA?
Ponte Tresa is located in Ecuador, with three farms nestled in the Andean highlands at 2,850 meters above sea level, near the Cayambe volcano and the picturesque San Pablo Lake. This prime equatorial location ensures intense sunlight and an optimal microclimate, allowing the cultivation of roses with long stems, vibrant colors, lush foliage, lasting freshness, and perfect blooms.
As a certified carbon-neutral company, Ponte Tresa leads the way in rose cultivation, driven by a steadfast commitment to environmental and social responsibility. Our dedication extends to our collaborators, their community, and the preservation of the planet. We strive for excellence with integrity and transparency, empowering our team to drive positive
change within the industry. This commitment ensures our unmatched quality and service, benefiting our community, our business partners, and the environment that surrounds us. At our core, we believe that initiating change begins with us, and we actively pursuit it in every endeavor. We proudly hold certifications from eight respected local and international organizations, including Carbon Neutral, FlorVerde, Fair Trade, Fair Trade USA, Rainforest Alliance, and Flor Ecuador, among others.
As industry pioneers, our offerings hold the latest and most exclusive rose varieties, ensuring the most unique selection available. Additionally, we currently boast the most extensive array of premium spray roses within Ecuador’s flower sector, and we continually strive to incorporate even more exceptional roses, garden-look roses and spray roses in the future.
Peach Fuzz Inspiration
PANTONE (13-1023)
Capturing the desire to nurture ourselves and others, these velvety gentle peach tones embraces the spirit enriching mind, body & soul.
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
for a greener future
At Ponte Tresa, we are deeply committed to sustainability, implementing a range of innovative practices to minimize our environmental footprint. We have developed a unique water management system that conserves this vital resource, ensuring efficient usage throughout our cultivation processes.
Proper soil and compost management practices are also in place to maintain soil health, promote sustainable agriculture, and enhance the growth conditions for our roses. By prioritizing soil health, we ensure our roses are cultivated in the most natural
and environmentally friendly way possible. In addition to our focus on water and soil management, we harness clean energy through the use of solar panels, significantly reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
By combining these efforts with efficient packaging practices that prevent waste and contamination, we demonstrate a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, ensuring our premium roses are produced with the utmost respect for the planet.
THAT FESTIVE NEEDS ITS PERFECT merry & bright match!
WE’VE GOT NEW SURPRISES WAITING FOR YOU!
COLORSCHEME
PONTE TRESA’S COMMITMENT TO ETHICAL ROSE GROWING
At Ponte Tresa, our passion for growing roses is related with our dedication to preserving the environment. We are thrilled to announce that we have been certified by the prestigius FlorVerde (FSF) organization, highlighting our commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. This recognition is a testament to our ongoing efforts to produce exceptional roses while nurturing the planet. Here’s what this means for us and the world.
What Flor Verde certification means?
The Flor Verde certification is an international recognition awarded to floral producers who follow various rigorous standards of environmental
and social responsibility. This certification ensures that roses are grown using sustainable practices that minimize negative impacts on the environment, promote biodiversity, and conserve resources. Also, it signifies that the company follows ethical practices regarding the treatment of our employees and their local communities. Achieving this certification demonstrates a commitment to producing high-quality varieties while maintaining a strong dedication to sustainability and ethical practices in our farms.
Why Flor Verde matters?
The FlorVerde certification is a significant achievement for Ponte Tresa, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and excellence. By choosing Ponte Tresa’s roses, you are supporting sustainable practices and contributing to a healthier planet, as well as believing in a company that truly cares and values its collaborators and the environment.
A better future begins with small steps
By choosing FlorVerde certified roses, you are making a positive impact on the planet. This choice supports sustainable farming practices that protect the environment for future generations.
2024 in numbers
+1 9
USD in CREDIT LOAN S
+49 K usd loans fo r student ai d
100 % \ \ \ of +20 k usd loans fo r community healt h
Millon Stems produce d in 1st half 202 4 +18 0 beautiful Varietie s Available Year-roun d 45 % worker s +70 K
p o m p e i i s a n d y v i n t a g e s w e e t n e s s p a
l o m a q u i c k s a n d
s i l v e r s a n d
m a g i c t i m e s
s w e e t b l i s s
l o r r a i n e
t a b a t h a a l i n e ( s a g a )
f r u t t e t o b l e s s i n g p i n k m o n d i a l
h a r d r o c k
s w e e t u n i q u e
j e t s e t
b l u e b e r r y p i a c e r e
h o t p a r i s
p i n k
f l o y d
f u l l m o n t y
p i n k s w a n o p a l a
g r a c e k e l l y
g e r a l d i n e e s p e r a n c e p a s t e l l a
r h o s l y n
v i p i n k l o l a
f a i r l a d y
s t a r p l a t i n u m a n d r e a
c o o l w a t e r p u r p l e m o o n
c o o l d o w n d e e p p u r p l e
b r o m o f i n a l l y f o r t u n e f r e e d o m r e d i a n t e x p l o r e r
r e d p a n t h e r
r a z z m a t a z z
s h i m m e r
l i g h t h o u s e g o l d f i n c h
p l a y a
k a h a l a t w i l i g h t s y m b o l s i l a n t o i
h e a r t o f g o l d
o r a n g e v i b e
c h e r r y b r a n d y n i n a
t y c o o n
h i g h & m a g i c
h o t m e r e n g u e
n e c t a r i n e
c o r a l r e e f
b l a n c a a v a l a n c h e
t e d d y ’ s
p o l o
c r e a m s h i m m e r
b e n t a y g a
h i g h l i g h t
m o o n s t o n e
m o n d i a l
p e a c h a v a l a n c h e
c r e m e d e l a c r e m e E X C E P T I O N A L p r e m i u m R O S E S
m o m e n t u m
h i g h & y e l l o w m a g i c
s n o w b l i s s t i b e t
v e n d e l a
Our Pioneering Approach to Rose Cultivation
SETTING
From cultivating and picking, to harvesting and packaging; the careful attention and care given to all varieties create its outstanding beauty and perfection. Ponte Tresa combines skilled talent, continuous training, innovative technology, and environmental responsibility. These factors allow us to deliver premium-quality roses that meet today’s the highiest market standards.
Fall-Inspired Ideas
The second half of 2024 brings important celebrations in the rose industry, providing a perfect time to showcase both classic and new varieties. As summer fades, people eagerly embrace autumn’s vibrant, warm tones. This season’s highlights include our premium roses, garden-look roses, and spray roses, which capture the essence of fall. Here are three exclusive rose varieties that are perfect for celebrating this harvest season, with creamy petal edges that transition seamlessly to reflect the calm, natural beauty of autumn. Let’s take a look!
TEDDY’S Premium Rose Variety
Have you ever wondered about the different types of rose bouquet styles? Maybe you’re looking to refresh your floral arrangements with a new variety but can’t decide which direction to take. There’s a style for every preference, and we’re here to help you find the perfect look. Style is all about the present, the here and the now. It guides us in creating floral designs that resonate with your tastes, whether they are warm and inviting, or sleek and modern.
In first place we present Teddy’s, a charming rose distinguished by its soft, sweet brown-like shade. This unique hue captures the essence of classic teddy bear tones, making Teddy’s a perfect name for this variety. With an impressive vase life, this rose brings a warm and inviting touch to any arrangement and style.
CLASSIC
ROMANTIC
Princess Crown
Symbol Heart of Gold
Shimmer 2
Copperfield Vintage Rosever
Peaches´n cream jewel
3 Blueberry Veggie
King's Cross
4 Kahala Wild Dune Edgy & Bold boho
Garden Look Rose Variety
ZEN
Knowing how to identify the key elements and characteristics of styles will help you to connect amazing ideas with a personal taste, and it will create the look and feel you want to achieve with any variety you select. Color is the main ingredient in this beautiful fusion, allowing freedom of expression, and the breaking of rules, while mixing and matching elements.
Our list of exclusive varieties wouldn’t be complete without Zen, a serene embodiment of tranquility and balance. It’s warm blend of yellow and creamlike hues captures the essence of fall, evoking a sense of cozy serenity.
1
2
2
C L A S S I C
3
3
4
4 Edgy & Bold boho
E d g y & B o l d b o h o
Momentum
Momentum R O M A N T I C
Be Loving
Orange Vibe Kahala
Enchantment
Bromo
Peaches´n cream jewel
Creme de la Creme
Friends Twilight
Orange Vibe GRANDIOSE Enchantment
REEF
creme de la creme
Garden Look Rose Variety
TIP TOP
Edgy and bold styles uniquely blend elements from diverse inspirations, creating arrangements designed to captivate. In contrast, traditional styles prioritize comfort, warmth, and familiarity, maintaining their timeless appeal and cherished status.
Tip Top’s hue evokes a breathtaking transition, beginning as an orange bud that swiftly opens into a classic deep cup, revealing shades of apricot on its center. As its petals relax, Tip Top’s shape becomes even more stunning, with its color evolving from a soft peach fuzz to a sunset kiss, and developing hints of caramel hues while maintaining a trendy warm tone in its outer petals.
CLASSIC
ROMANTIC
Aureus
PLAYA BLANCA Tycoon
Nectarine 2 Rhoslyn Coral X-Pression
High & Magic
3 Orange Reeva Sweet Bliss
4 Edgy & Bold boho
piacere star blush creme shimmer
d s h o o t i n g s t a r ( g ) t h
b r . s t a r a p r i c o t
m o r n i n g s t a r
b r . s t a r v o l a n s
b r s t a r l i g h t p i n k
j e w e l ( g )
g a r d e n b r i d a l
w e d d i n g r o s e v e r ( g )
b l u s h j e w e l
b i g d i p p e
s w e e t j e w e l
b e g e n e r o u s ( g )
b e t r u e ( g )
b r s t a r g r e e n p i n k ( g )
c r o p j e w e l
c r e a m o f t h e
c r e a m j e w e l
p e a c h e s n ’
p e a c h j e w e l
v i n t a g e r o s e v e r d e e p p i n k j e w e l c a n d y j e w e l c o n s t e l a t i o n ( g ) p i n k j e w e l b e
b r s t a r p i n k
a u r e u s ( g )
w i n k a l l u r e ( g )
s h i n i n g s t a r
b r . s t a r o r a n g e o r a n g e j e w e l o r a n g e s t a r p e a c h y p i n k j e w e l s u n s e t g l a m o r ( g )
l o v i n g ( g ) b a b y r o s e v e r
s t a r b l u s h
b r . s t a r c r e a m p i n k
b e l o y a l ( g )
y e l l o w j e w e l ( g )
U n e ( G ) t r o p i c a l s t a r n e w m o o n
g o l d e n t a n g e r i n e s t a r b r i t e
b r s t a r y e l l o w w i l d
s w e e t d r e a m s g r e e n r o s e v e r
p o l a r s e n s a t i o n f l o r e a n a b e s t r o n g ( g )
E X C E P T I O N A L s p r a y R O S E S
BLOSSOMING FUTURES: HOW PONTE TRESA
CULTIVATES ROSES AND COMMUNITY
Beyond the undeniable beauty of their roses, Ponte Tresa stands out for its commitment to FairTrade, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility toward its workers.
This commitment comes to life through a series of initiatives known as “projects” that focus on improving housing, healthcare, and education for the farm’s employees and their families. These projects have become a hallmark of Ponte Tresa’s mission to create lasting, positive change for its workers. “When we first started with these projects, our children were young. Thanks to the programs we created, they were able to go to school, attend high school, and finish university,” says Rosa Farinango, who has worked at Ponte Tresa for over 22 years. Rosa has played an active role in shaping these initiatives.
Education has been one of the most impactful programs. Ponte Tresa provides school supplies, clothing, backpacks, and shoes for the children of its workers, while scholarships help families afford higher education. “For my children, it’s been a wonderful experience,” Rosa shares. Her two older children are now undergraduates, and her youngest is still attending college. “I can confidently say that every worker’s school age child is studying,” says Alberto Maldonado Jaramillo, the company’s Human Resources Manager. This initiative, he adds, “has transformed the lives of our collaborators and their families.”
The housing project is another point of pride for the farm, reflecting their long-term investment in their employees’ futures. “People don’t just come here to work; they come home,” says Alberto. Through scholarships and credit programs, workers have been able to build their own houses, leading to “95% of our
“For US, THE idEA iS NoT jUST To SELL A FLoWEr; iT iS To SELL A FEELiNg, ANd WHo TrANSmiTS THAT FEELiNg? Our peOple.”
employees now owning their own homes in excellent condition,” Maldonado adds. For the workers, these houses represent more than just shelter—they symbolize stability.
At Ponte Tresa, transparency and participation are at the core of how the farm operates. “Everyone is involved here,” explains Maldonado. “Our workers know what’s going on with the company. Economic data, decision-making, it’s all shared with them.” Gender equality is another core value. “Whether you’re a man or a woman, everyone receives the same opportunities and equal pay,” Alberto highlights.
This approach has fostered deep loyalty among employees. The average worker stays with Ponte Tresa for 17 years, an impressive statistic for any industry. “Many employees leave only when they retire or when they decide to start their own businesses, equipped with
the skills they developed at our farm,” he adds. Alberto sums up Ponte Tresa’s philosophy with a simple yet powerful statement: “For us, it’s not just about selling a rose; it’s about selling a feeling. And that feeling is passed on by our people, who come from the community. Ponte Tresa is part of that community.” The commitment to community is evident in the workers’ sense of deep gratitude. “The farm is my second home. My coworkers and I are extremely grateful”, says Rosa. After more than two decades with Ponte Tresa, she has no plans of leaving. “Thanks to Ponte Tresa’s projects along Fair Trade iniciatives, and the support of our customers, we’ve been able to improve our lives— and we’ll keep on getting better”, she states.
Through its commitment to Fair Trade principles, Ponte Tresa has not only cultivated worldclass roses but also nurtured a thriving community. By investing in the well-being of its workers, the company has created a model of social responsibility that goes far beyond its rose varieties. In the end, the beauty of Ponte Tresa’s roses is matched only by the blossoming of the lives it has helped shape.
m a n d a r i n xp r e s s i o n
h a p p i n k
c o u n t r y h o m e g r a n d i o s e
z e n
c o u n t r y s u n
s w e e t 4 l o v e
a p p l e j a
c k h e a r t s
c o r a l xp r e s s i o n
c a n d y xp r e s s i o n
c o u n t r y b l u e s
e n c h a n t m e n t
s c a n d a l
q u e e n ’ s c r o w n
p i n k xp r e s s i o n
o r a n g e r e e v a
n e w s f l a s h
s u n s e t xp r e s s i o n
h o u d i n i
c o p p e r f i e l d
k i n g ’ s c r o s s t i p t o p
v e g g i e p r i n c e s s c r o w n
j o u r n e y
c o u n t r y s e c r e t
d y n a m i c s a n d s t o r m
G A R D E N S P I R I T
W H I T E
c a n d l e l i g h t
a n t o n i a
g a r d e n l o o k r o s e s
FROM EMPLOYEE TO ENTREPRENEUR: JOSÉ
“CHAVITO” INLAGO’S JOURNEY WITH PONTE TRESA AND FAIR TRADE
José “Chavito” Inlagos, worked at Ponte Tresa Farms from 2004 to 2019, before leaving to pursue his own rose cultivation business. “Working at this farm was a rewarding experience. Ponte Tresa is a company that genuinely cares for its employees. They consistently prioritized our well-being.”
One of the most transformative aspects of José’s time at Ponte Tresa was the support he received through Fair Trade programs. “Thanks to the company’s FairTrade programs, I was able to build my home, start my business, and provide my children with the education they deserved,” José shares. Through scholarships offered by Ponte Tresa in partnership with FairTrade, he was able to build his home, where he now lives with his wife and four children. “The company’s housing credits allowed me to build the house where I’m speaking from today.”
José also underscores Ponte Tresa’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship and the welfare of its workers. “Ponte Tresa always went above and beyond to take care of us, in line with FairTrade standards—whether it was through scholarships, community support programs, or their dedication to protect us and the environment,” he says.
The educational support offered to his children was a life-changing benefit for his family. “My children earned their scholarships by maintaining good grades and pursuing their chosen fields of study,” José proudly states. “Thanks to this support, one of my sons is now about to be un undergraduate.”
Leaving the company to start his own venture was a difficult decision for José, but he knew he was completely backed up. “Without Ponte Tresa’s help, I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have today; through my time there, it felt like a second home for me. My children received scholarships for education, we enjoyed vacations, and we were also able to travel. But I needed to take the next step for myself, and I succeeded,” he explains.
The values and skills he learned at Ponte Tresa, especially those rooted in FairTrade principles, have been essential to his success. “Here, we are also committed to
Jose Inlagos, former farm collaborator at Ponte Tresa.
“WorkiNg oN THE FArm WAS AN iNcrEdiBLE ExpEriENcE WiTH A compANY THAT TrULY cArES For iTS EmpLoYEES . They always lOOked OuT fOr us.”
working with organic products to ensure we deliver the highest quality,” José asserts, emphasizing the importance of sustainability—a principle he plans to carry forward in his future proyects.
Looking back on his 15 years at Ponte Tresa, José expresses deep gratitude. “I want to thank Ponte Tresa for everything they’ve done for my family and I. Their support allowed me to start my own business, which continues to sustain me.”
Although he currently leases land, his goal is to own his own property and work alongside his family. “My dream is to export my own roses with the help of my children. And I believe that with the support Ponte Tresa gave my family, that dream will become a reality.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
Get ready to meet our exclusive varieties. Prepare to meet us once again at Expo Flor Ecuador & IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show 2024! This is your chance to see what makes Ponte Tresa’s roses truly remarkable.
We invite you to explore creativity and embrace uniqueness, celebrating individuality and beauty in every arrangement. We are excited to bring fresh spirit to the floral industry with the most valuable trends for the 2nd Half of 2024.
