Riguecoop of Riguepeu Celebrates Continued Success at French Agricultural Show
The little village of Riguepeu, nestled in the Gers department of southwestern France, is celebrating the achievements of local cooperative Riguecoop at the 2026 Salon de l’Agriculture (French Agricultural Show) in Paris. The artisanal canning factory has once again distinguished itself, bringing home a total of three medals – two gold and one silver – for its traditional duck products. This marks the second consecutive year that Riguecoop has earned the highest number of medals among producers of traditional duck products at the prestigious event. The success underscores the cooperative’s commitment to preserving traditional methods and quality in the production of foie gras and other duck specialties.
Riguecoop, a Société Coopérative d’Intérêt Collectif (SCIC), or cooperative society of collective interest, was established eleven years ago in Riguepeu. The cooperative model, as highlighted by the company, ensures that force-feeders, breeders, employees, partners, and volunteers are all associate cooperators in the operation. This unique structure, recognized as a “Solidarity Enterprise,” sets Riguecoop apart within the French fattened duck industry. The cooperative’s dedication to traditional techniques and its collaborative approach have clearly resonated with judges at the Salon de l’Agriculture, solidifying its reputation for excellence. The village of Riguepeu itself is located between two hills, near Vic-Fezensac, a region known for its agricultural heritage.
Medals Awarded for Duck Specialties
The 2026 awards recognize Riguecoop’s expertise in several key product categories. For the second year running, the cooperative secured a gold medal for its *magret de canard séché* (dried duck breast). A gold medal was also awarded to their *foie gras de canard entier en conserve* (whole duck foie gras in can), a significant improvement from the bronze medal received for the same product last year. Completing the trio of accolades, the *foie gras de canard entier mi-cuit* (whole duck foie gras, lightly cooked) earned a silver medal. These awards demonstrate a consistent level of quality across Riguecoop’s product line, particularly in the production of foie gras, a regional delicacy.
Geneviève Aubian, Riguecoop’s technico-commerciale, has been managing the cooperative’s stand at the Salon de l’Agriculture since 2019. She noted a slightly more subdued atmosphere at the 2026 show compared to previous years, attributing it to the absence of many farmers, and breeders. Despite a less bustling environment and a potentially suboptimal location for their stand, Aubian expressed satisfaction with the results. She highlighted the importance of educating visitors about the Gers department, often relying on the recognition of nearby Vic-Fezensac – known for its festivals like Pentecôtavic and Tempo Latino – to support people locate the region. Aubian was supported at the stand by her husband, Philippe, and brother-in-law, Louis, a traiteur (caterer) who provided tasting opportunities for attendees.
A Leading Force in the Gers
Riguecoop’s co-managers, Pauline Gury and Jean-Michel Duffau, emphasized the cooperative’s dominance within the Gers department. They proudly stated that Riguecoop is, for the second consecutive year, the leading recipient of medals for traditional duck products from the Gers at the Salon de l’Agriculture. Since 2019, the cooperative has accumulated a total of 15 medals at the show, with one year being an exception where the competition did not take place. This consistent success is a testament to the dedication of the cooperative’s nine employees and the quality of their products.
The co-managers and employees collectively expressed their pride in the achievement, stating, “Tous nos foies gras sont médaillés. Nous sommes très fiers et très heureux” (“All our foie gras are medal-winning. We are very proud and very happy”). This sentiment reflects the cooperative’s commitment to upholding the traditions of French duck farming and providing consumers with high-quality, artisanal products. The cooperative’s focus on traditional methods and its unique cooperative structure contribute to its success and its ability to consistently earn recognition at national events like the Salon de l’Agriculture.
Riguecoop’s success story is particularly noteworthy in the context of the evolving landscape of French agriculture. The cooperative model, with its emphasis on shared ownership and collective benefit, offers a sustainable alternative to traditional farming practices. By prioritizing quality, tradition, and collaboration, Riguecoop is not only preserving a valuable culinary heritage but also contributing to the economic vitality of the Riguepeu region and the wider Gers department. The cooperative’s products, including a variety of foie gras preparations, duck confit, and other regional specialties, are available for purchase directly from the company and through select retailers. More information about Riguecoop’s product selection can be found on their website.
The Salon de l’Agriculture remains a crucial platform for showcasing the diversity and quality of French agricultural products. For Riguecoop, it provides an opportunity to connect with consumers, promote its products, and reaffirm its commitment to traditional methods and sustainable practices. The cooperative’s continued success at the show is a positive sign for the future of artisanal food production in France and a source of pride for the community of Riguepeu.
Looking ahead, Riguecoop will continue to focus on producing high-quality duck products using traditional methods. The cooperative’s commitment to its unique business model and its dedication to the preservation of regional culinary traditions position it for continued success in the years to approach. Further updates on Riguecoop’s activities and product offerings can be expected as the company participates in future agricultural events and expands its reach to new markets.
Stay tuned for further updates on Riguecoop’s progress and the latest developments in the French agricultural sector. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with artisanal food products in the comments below.