In the picturesque town of Zubiri, located in the heart of Navarra, is Embutidos Arrieta, a family-owned company with over a century of tradition in producing high-quality meat products. Haritz Arrieta, representing the fourth generation leading this prominent business, enthusiastically shares the brand’s history and promising future projections.
“Our history dates back more than a hundred years,” says Haritz, highlighting the pride of keeping alive a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. Despite market changes, the company has managed to maintain a family recipe, employing artisanal techniques while adapting to consumers’ new demands.
Embutidos Arrieta’s philosophy is based on using exceptional raw materials and artisanal production of its products. Haritz emphasizes that the company sources fresh meat and uses completely natural ingredients. A clear example of this is their famous chistorra, made only with paprika, garlic, and salt, without the addition of artificial preservatives. Each piece of sausage is individually crafted and stuffed in natural casings, combining traditional heritage with the advantages of contemporary technology. Some of the meat used comes from Duroc breed pigs, raised semi-freely, ensuring a final product of superior quality.
Among the company’s most renowned specialties is the Chistorra de Navarra, which has a designation of origin, a feature Haritz is particularly proud of. Additionally, the company offers other flagship products, such as the typical filling of the Pamplona basin, blood sausage with hints of anise and cinnamon, and fresh sausages highly valued by children. Recently, they have diversified their offerings with the addition of cachopos, which have been very well received in the market.
Looking towards the future, Embutidos Arrieta has undergone a renovation in their facilities in the last three years, allowing them to expand their production capacity without sacrificing their artisanal character. They have also taken a step forward by launching an online store, thus adapting to transformations in consumers’ shopping habits. “Society evolves, and so does the way people buy. The company has to keep up,” reflects Haritz.
Sustainability has become a fundamental pillar for the company. This year, they have installed solar panels on the roof of their facilities with the goal of reducing their energy dependence and minimizing their environmental impact.
Strategically located in the first stage of the Camino de Santiago, Embutidos Arrieta receives a large number of pilgrims who enjoy their products at the nearby Bar Valentín. Many of these visitors place orders upon returning home, contributing to the company’s constant growth.
With plans for expansion, Embutidos Arrieta aims to increase its presence beyond Navarra. After participating in the Madrid Gourmet Fair last year, they plan to return in April with the intention of establishing partnerships with distributors nationwide. With over a century of history behind them, this family-owned company demonstrates that it is possible to merge tradition and artisanal quality with the demands of the modern market, anticipating a bright future full of innovation and commitment to sustainability.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish