Let’s face it, doing business across the Atlantic isn’t always easy. Shipping is expensive, regulations are tight and tariffs on imported foods from Europe haven’t exactly helped. Yet, there’s a curious (and telling) trend: U.S. distributors keep buying Spanish almonds. Not just buying, betting on them, investing in them and building entire product lines around them.
So… why?
It’s not just about the almond, it’s about what it means
In Spain, almonds aren’t just a snack. They’re part of our landscape, out culture, even our language. And when it comes to Marcona almonds, that passion turns into something world-class.
Known as the “queen” of almonds, Marcona isn’t your average nut. It’s rounder, smoother and richer, the kind of almond that doesn’t need flavoring to be delicious. Just a pinch of sea salt and a drizzle of Spain olive oil, and it speaks for itself.
Ask any distributor who’s tried them: you don’t forget your first Marcona.
What makes it worth it?
From our side, at El Nogal, we’ve seen it firsthand. Despite the added cost, U.S. distributors continue ordering out products again and again. Why? Because they’ve discovered that quality sells.
We don’t mass-produce. We create original recipes, crafted in small batches with a lot of care. We’re not just a producer, we’re a partner. One who knows what “Made in Spain” really means and how to turn a great ingredient into something people crave.
It’s not just almonds, it’s everything
- Extra virgin olive oil.
- Marcona almonds.
- Manzanilla olive.
- Ibérico chorizo and jamón serrano.
- Queso manchego.
- Tinned seafood.
- Valencia almonds.
These aren’t mass-produced items. These are food with heritage, quality and flavor that stand out in a sea of sameness.
Growth, even with setbacks
Yes, we’ve felt the impact of tariffs as has everyone. But here’s the thing: we’re still growing. Not because we cut corners (we don’t), but because when a product is genuinely good, it moves. And because we understand what out American partners need speed, transparency, consistency and above all, something the can proudly sell.
If you’re a U.S. importer, distributor or specialty buyer looking to expand your portfolio with authentic Spanish food, you’re not alone. The trend is growing.
Whether you’re sourcing Spanish almonds, olive oil, cured meats, tinned seafood or artisan snacks, Spain isn’t just an option, it’s a competitive advantage.
At El Nogal, we continue to grow with our U.S. partners, not in spite of the challenges, but because we know what makes a product worth importing.
