Jordbærbua wins agricultural award

For 50 years, the family business has supplied high-quality strawberries directly from the farm, evolving over generations into a strong, forward-looking business in the region.

‘This year, we celebrated 50 years of continuously growing and selling strawberries directly from the same farm, which makes us very proud. Keeping the family business going from one generation to the next is no small achievement in a field as demanding as strawberry production. We are incredibly grateful to receive this award,’ says Per Fredrik Saxebøl of Jordbærbua.

The company creates good jobs, supports a smooth transition to the next generation and helps rural communities thrive. By offering a wide range of strawberry varieties and maintaining a strong customer focus, the company has successfully adapted to its customers’ preferences and needs, achieving record sales and attracting large numbers of customers during its 50th anniversary year in 2025.

'Our goal has always been to grow strawberries with the flavours and qualities our customers want, and seeing the family business continue into the next generation is a great source of motivation for us,' he says.

Jury chair and Regional Director Kristin Willoch Haugen at Innovation Norway East congratulates the winner:
‘The jury is delighted to present the award to someone who is known in the industry for clearly communicating the importance of good working conditions for all employees, and for showing genuine pride and commitment to food production and quality. Through their long-term efforts and continuous improvements, Per Fredrik Saxebøl and his team have achieved strong results and made Jordbærbua an impressive company,’ she says.

Technology has increased profitability

The company has adopted modern technology and adapted to market developments, resulting in increased profitability built on strong professional expertise and focused efforts. Saxebøl also stands out for its strong commitment to integrated pest management (IPM), with an emphasis on sustainable, knowledge-based cultivation methods.

The company prevents disease and pests through targeted agronomic practices, including crop rotation, manual weeding, systematic monitoring and ongoing expert assessments to ensure healthy, resilient crops.

About the Business Development Award in Agriculture
Each year, we present the Business Development Award in Agriculture on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. The award recognises businesses that have successfully built their operations on rural and agricultural resources. Each year, a winner is selected in every county and receives NOK 50,000. The county winners then compete for the national award of NOK 250,000.