Farm in Vienna: "In the supermarket, offers are often made that undermine our prices"

Memories of Lower Austria come alive during our visit to the Prohaska organic farm. However, the address says something different: Leopoldauer Platz 4, 1210 Vienna. Inside, we are greeted by Andreas Prohaska, who has handed over the farm – approximately 45 hectares are cultivated in the federal capital and in Lower Austria – to his son this year. He cannot answer how long the farm has existed, but he can answer many other questions.

VIENNA.at: What is the biggest difference between agriculture in the city and in the countryside?

Andreas Prohaska: You probably have more space in the countryside than in our operation. The advantage is that there are many people who buy the products we produce when, like us, you market directly. You are closer to the consumer. On the other hand, the noise and traffic can often be a bit stressful. Life is certainly quieter in the countryside.

What kind of people come to you and shop there?

I believe these are people who think a bit about how they want to live and who support local, want to live healthily, and buy organic food. And perhaps also older people who are used to getting something healthy that hasn't been treated or sprayed. We also have young people, including those with children.

Has it become economically more difficult in recent years?

Yes, definitely. Considerably more difficult.

In what way?

Because prices are falling and there is more and more bureaucracy. And in the supermarket, offers are often made that undercut our prices.

What would you say to one of our readers about why they should come to you and not go to a supermarket?

Because they can shop calmly and maybe chat, and they are sure to get very fresh goods. They don't have to rush when putting away their things. And there is a rural atmosphere as well as nice people.

How do you think agriculture in Vienna will look in the future? Will it still exist in 50 years?

I think it's like everywhere else. Many businesses will no longer exist, but rather a few large ones – unless something changes or politics takes measures to ensure that smaller businesses can also survive.

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(BP/Red)

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