Since 2004, we have been supporting a women's cooperative in the Arganeraie, which enables the Berber tribe to organize the entire argan oil production process - from harvesting to processing - themselves. This approach promotes the independence of the women vis-à-vis the owners of the factories and allows them to benefit fully from the local value chain. In our cooperative, argan oil production is the sole responsibility of the Berber women, enabling them to improve their income. The cooperative is located in the approximately 8000 square kilometer Arganeraie, a UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1998, and the only location of the argan trees.

Our cooperative cultivates a traditional production method that is recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. This means that the protected argan trees remain untouched and only fallen fruit is collected. After harvesting, they are dried for several weeks and then processed by hand, which is more resource-friendly than industrial production and secures local jobs. The seeds are sorted by hand and gently cold-pressed.

The argan oil is filtered several times after pressing, which results in a first-class product and secures a regular income for over 200 women in the cooperative. Between the filtering processes, the oil is deodorized to make it odourless and tasteless, which is why it is particularly popular. In addition to selling the argan oil, we also offer technical support by having our agricultural engineers regularly visit and advise the cooperative.

Our cooperative's production method contrasts sharply with industrial production, which leads to a loss of income for Berber families. The government has promoted cooperatives to counteract this trend, but many are now dependent on factories. Working with a cooperative that produces argan oil traditionally and takes over the value chain itself is crucial to keep production in the hands of the Berber people.

Our argan oil is certified organic, which confirms that it is produced in accordance with strict ecological guidelines. This seal guarantees that our oil is not only produced in the traditional way, but also in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner, which ensures the quality and purity of the product.