In 1928, a few producers from the Manosque basin joined forces to create an olive oil cooperative.
In its early years, the Moulin de l’Olivette enjoyed modest but significant success. Thanks to their commitment and hard work, the members of the cooperative are able to improve the quality of the olive oil produced. This period is also marked by the adoption of more modern production methods, increasing the efficiency of the mill and the quality of the final product.’
As early as 1931, the oil produced at the Moulin de l’Olivette was awarded prizes at the Concours Général Agricole.
During the Second World War, the cooperative's attic was made available to the French Forces of the Interior to store military equipment. On November 29 of the same year, the building was destroyed by an explosion, causing casualties among the resistance fighters.
The following years were difficult for the cooperative, as for many businesses in France. Despite economic challenges and restrictions, the Moulin de l’Olivette continues to operate, supported by the determination and resilience of its members.’
The mill was rebuilt in 1952 with innovative infrastructure: stainless steel was now used and the harvests were extremely fruitful for the following two years.’
With the economic recovery, the Moulin de l’Olivette is developing rapidly. The quality of its olive oil is increasingly recognized, both locally and nationally. This recognition is the result of expertise passed down from generation to generation, combined with continuous modernization of equipment and production techniques.’
Deeply attached to the Provençal olive-growing tradition and thanks to generations of enthusiasts who keep it alive, Le Moulin de l’Olivette has been able to adapt, reinvent itself and endure throughout the 20th century despite the harsh winters of 1929 and 1956, which practically wiped out the olive tree population in the Manosque region.’
Jean Giono was a cooperative member at the Moulin de l’Olivette.’
Since the 1980s and the highlighting of the Cretan diet, the consumption of olive oil has been constantly increasing: Consumption almost doubled between the 1990s and the 2000s.’
The Moulin de l’Olivette cooperative aims to be ambitious and avant-garde in order to offer an olive oil with character.
Today it is the only olive oil cooperative in Haute Provence and one of the oldest mills in the region still in operation.’
The Moulin de l’Olivette has become a major player in the production of olive oil in the region. The cooperative is committed to a quality and certification approach, obtaining labels that attest to the superior quality of its products. She actively participates in the promotion of olive cultivation and olive oil.’
Today, the Moulin de l’Olivette is more than just an olive oil producer. It is a symbol of the history and culture of Provence, an example of the success of a cooperative economy based on sharing, solidarity and respect for the environment. It continues to attract visitors and olive oil enthusiasts from all over the world, eager to discover the secrets of this age-old tradition.’
In conclusion, the story of the Moulin de l’Olivette in Manosque is that of a cooperative which, through challenges and eras, has been able to preserve and enhance traditional know-how while adapting to market developments and consumer expectations. This is a story that demonstrates the importance of unity, cooperation and respect for nature in the sustainability and success of a business.
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