MPS and Confagricoltura Liguria strengthen collaboration

MPS and Confagricoltura Liguria have strengthened their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding at MyPlant & Garden in Milan, Italy on 19 February 2026. The agreement was signed by Luca De Michelis, President of Confagricoltura Liguria, and Antonio Fracassi, MPS Coordinator for Italy. With this agreement, both organisations reaffirm their shared ambition to accelerate sustainability in horticulture and to build a transparent, future-proof value chain.

The partnership places a strong focus on certification, with a joint mission to work towards 100% certified production and traded volumes in horticulture by 2027. By intensifying their cooperation in this field, MPS and Confagricoltura Liguria underline the importance of measurable and credible sustainability standards across the sector.

© MPS

“Sustainability in horticulture must be transparent, measurable and practical,” says Maik Mandemaker, Area Manager Europe at MPS. “By strengthening our cooperation with Confagricoltura Liguria, we are supporting Italian growers with concrete tools, data-driven insights and certification frameworks that help them demonstrate their progress and strengthen their market position.” To support growers in this transition, the partners will organise inspirational events, workshops and targeted training sessions. These initiatives will create space for practical guidance, knowledge-sharing and exchange of best practices.

“For our members, sustainability is not an abstract ambition but a daily reality,” says Luca De Michelis, President of Confagricoltura Liguria. “This partnership enables us to combine local expertise with international certification standards, reinforcing the reputation of Italian horticulture and the value of the “Made in Italy” brand.” In addition, the collaboration enables the development of data-driven, aggregated sustainability insights. These insights will help to demonstrate progress within the sector and support the members of Confagricoltura Liguria, strengthen the “Made in Italy” brand and contribute to the continued development of the Italian horticultural industry as a whole.