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Ever wondered how a drop of golden Greek olive oil travels from the sun-kissed groves to your dinner table? Great flavor can only be achieved by crafting products with the purest ingredients available. We sat down with Christina Kakoulaki, our sourcing manager, to talk about our approach to sourcing and how raw materials travel from the heart of Greece to your kitchen.

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The Journey of Sourcing at Neolea

It begins with selecting the finest raw materials. “At Neolea, our focus is on sourcing ingredients that align with our commitment to quality, sustainability, and authenticity,” Christina explains. This means collaborating closely with trusted farmers and producers who follow ethical practices to ensure the freshness and responsible harvesting of every ingredient.

But it doesn’t stop there. Packaging plays an essential role in maintaining quality. “Our extra virgin olive oil, for example, is stored in painted glass bottles to protect against light exposure, preserving its flavor and nutrients,” Christina notes. This meticulous attention to detail extends to Neolea’s sea salts and balsamic vinegars, ensuring each product retains its essence from sourcing to your table.

Once the products are packaged and quality-checked, the logistics chain kicks in. Timing is critical. “We work with logistics partners that prioritize safe handling and prompt deliveries to maintain the integrity of the product,” she says. Finally, Neolea partners with retailers that share the same vision for quality, allowing our products to reach kitchens all over the world.

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Navigating Sourcing Challenges

Sourcing is not without its challenges. Christina recalls the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on supply chains: “Packaging materials were scarce, suppliers were struggling, and costs surged. We worked hard to find alternative solutions and absorb costs wherever possible to avoid affecting our customers.”

More recently, in 2023–2024, the price of extra virgin olive oil skyrocketed. “We tried to mitigate the impact by optimizing packaging and placing larger orders, but eventually, we had to adjust our pricing,” she shares. “At Neolea, quality is non-negotiable, so we made the tough decision to reflect these increases in our prices without sacrificing the product.”

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Aligned with our Brand Philosophy

What criteria guide the selection of materials for Neolea’s products? Christina explains, “We prioritize authenticity and sustainability. We choose only the finest Mediterranean ingredients that reflect our heritage and values.” At Neolea, innovation is always balanced with tradition, ensuring that the sensory experience of our products connects people around the table.

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Building Strong Relationships with Producers

For Christina, sourcing is as much about relationships as it is about products. “We share more than just business with our producers—we share life moments. I’ve had countless calls with vendors where we discuss everything from stock levels to personal stories. It’s like talking to an old friend,” she laughs.

Neolea’s sourcing strategy isn’t static. “We stay ahead by consistently reviewing market trends, maintaining strong relationships, and focusing on customer feedback. This, combined with continuous learning and development, ensures we stay at the forefront of sourcing.”

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At Neolea, sourcing is a journey built on quality, sustainability, and connection. From the raw materials in Greece to your kitchen, we ensure that every step reflects our commitment to delivering great flavor and authenticity.

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