Fran Transitions from 20-Year Career to Focus on 400 Beehives

After 20 years in construction, Francisco José González García, known as Fran, left his secure job to pursue beekeeping. He now manages 400 hives across Valladolid, Zamora, and Palencia, producing natural honey under the Mielegante brand. His journey illustrates the challenges and rewards of rural self-employment in Spain.

In February 2020, Fran decided to fully commit to beekeeping, inspired by his childhood summers in Torrelobatón, Valladolid. He oversees around 400 hives and handles all production stages, from tending bees to packaging honey in his workshop. His honey, priced between 10 and 12 euros per jar, is sold directly and through about 20 small retailers.