Low producer prices are a burden on domestic agriculture at a time when stability, reliability and planning security are particularly important. As the GOURMETFEIN company with the ÖBERIO meat brand, which has always been closely associated with regional agriculture, we see value creation not as a short-term calculation, but as a shared responsibility – starting on the farm.

Based on this self-image, we have consciously decided to pass on only half of the latest price reduction from the Pig Exchange to our 46 Upper Austrian pig partner farms and to bear the majority of this burden ourselves.

GOURMETFEIN is thus sending out a clear signal for partnership, fairness and the sustainable safeguarding of our regional raw material base. We are aware that this measure cannot solve structural market problems. However, it should make it clear that responsibility can – and must – be shared along the entire value chain.

The quality of partnerships is particularly evident in challenging times. We stand by our farmers – reliably, in partnership and even when conditions are difficult.

With around 1,400 pigs per week and a total weight of just over 150 tons, this decision represents a considerable cost for GOURMETFEIN. Even more painful, however, is the reality that nine farms close every day in Austria – and are highly unlikely to open again. This means the end of small-scale livelihoods: farms where people personally look after their animals, whose daily work ensures biodiversity and makes a significant contribution to the preservation of farming structures.

If we do not want foreign industrial agriculture with its often very problematic pork and beef production, but at the same time consciously want to preserve small-scale domestic agriculture, then we need a clear commitment from all those involved – from meat processing companies to retailers and restaurants to consumers – to Austrian agriculture and our capable farmers. The owner of GOURMETFEIN declared on oath back in 2020 that his company does not process a single kilogram of pork or beef from outside its own value chain, which is unique in the German-speaking world. This means that restaurateurs, food retailers and consumers can rest assured: Everything is above board at GOURMETFEIN.

When consumers buy a Leberkässemmel at BP, Shell or ENI petrol stations in Austria, for example, in over 3,500 petrol station stores in Germany (including Aral, ENI, Esso, Total, Shell, Sprint and other providers), at many food retailers or wherever GOURMETFEIN advertising is visible, it is guaranteed under oath: Not a single gram of beef or pork comes from outside the unique Austrian value chain.