Family Van Ingelgom

Patrick Van Ingelgom caught the chicory bug from a very young age. His great-grandfather founded the business in 1922, and it’s now in its fourth generation. Since 1986, Patrick has been at the very heart of the company. His parents insisted he pursue his studies, but after three years he left university to dedicate himself fully to the family firm.

When hydroponics began to emerge, Patrick and his father carried out trials with this modern method of chicory cultivation. They soon switched over to this more advanced system.

The biggest challenge for the business? Finding an equally passionate successor. “I have four daughters who work outside the sector, so they won’t be taking over,” explains Patrick.

According to Patrick, the greatest benefit of working through BelOrta is not being dependent on a single buyer, which provides greater security. “All growers should work via the auction system,” he believes.

He leaves us with a chicory tip: “If you’re using chicory in a salad, soak it briefly in sugar water first and then shake off the excess. This helps the chicory keep its lovely colour and stay fresh for longer.”