Highest award for Agricultural Excellence in 2017

Each year, the Galicia Bank and the Argentinian newspaper LA NACIÓN deliver the “Agricultural Excellence Awards” in 15 categories to the best names in the industry. Establecimiento Las Marías (the company that created Taragüi) has won in 2017 not only the prize for the Best Agri-Food Company, but also the Highest Award of the night: The Golden Prize.

A recognition for their contribution to society

With this award, Las Marías is not only being given recognition for its extensive background as the largest yerba mate company in the world (diversified to many other activities) but also for its great social contribution: Currently, the company employs 1,200 people and 850 contractors, while 90 families live in their premises. They also founded the “Victoria” School with 400 students and the “Víctor Navajas Centeno” agro-technical Institute with 1,000 graduates.

The premises of Establecimiento Las Marias are located in the province of Corrientes, and in 2016 alone the company has produced 55,962 tons of yerba mate, 2,200 tons of tea and 66,773 tons of round wood. With more than 85 years in the market, some of its best-known brands are Taragüi, Unión and La Merced.

An outstanding performance

Las Marías managed to stand out among 260 producers, companies and research organizations. In fact, in 2017 there were 25% more postulates than in previous years. This award honors people and companies who seek to innovate, use technology and improve production; but at the same time taking care of the environment and generating a positive impact on society.

This award symbolizes the excellence in the agricultural sector, and it means quite a lot to those who receive it and to those who give it. “When we dreamed of this prize, it was clear that we wanted to create an exceptional and extraordinary event that would connect the land with education and innovation”, said Norberto Frigerio, director of Institutional Relations at LA NACION.