The award of the maintenance contract for these spaces until 2030 to the social enterprises UNEI and FEPAMIC, as a Temporary Union of Enterprises (UTE), has enabled the creation of these jobs, almost entirely for residents of Lucena and its surroundings. Seven out of ten operators are people with disabilities, given the social nature of the awarded companies.
The mayor of Lucena, Aurelio Fernández, along with the president of FEPAMIC, Sara Rodríguez, and the general director of UNEI, Rafael Cía, welcomed the new gardening and environmental conservation team. The aim is to enhance the maintenance of natural areas, green spaces, squares, and open areas within the municipality.
This collaboration, the first between UNEI and FEPAMIC, leaders in the social economy in Andalusia, involved a joint investment of 240,000 euros in transport and specialized machinery. This includes trucks, electric vans, trailers, containers, mowers, brush cutters, blowers, hedge trimmers, and chainsaws, as well as manual tools.
The companies have launched a dedicated facility in Lucena for service management and storage. Key tasks include irrigation, fertilization, pruning, maintenance and replacement of plant species, as well as cleaning gardens and playgrounds, and maintaining paved areas, ensuring comprehensive service.
Aurelio Fernández emphasized the goal of making Lucena a "more cared-for, cleaner, and greener city," generating inclusive employment. Sara Rodríguez highlighted FEPAMIC's over 20 years of experience in gardening and maintenance, an activity they carry out in six other municipalities in the province of Córdoba, and their connection with Lucena through a day center and previous minor contracts.
Rafael Cía explained that UNEI Natura, a division specializing in environmental conservation, leads this project with over 120 projects across Andalusia. UNEI, which employs over 2,100 workers in the region, has seen "double-digit" growth in staff in Córdoba.
Both entities stressed the "power of the non-profit business fabric" in undertaking ambitious projects and restoring life opportunities, particularly for people with disabilities, through employment.
FEPAMIC, a Cordoban social entity with around 800 professionals, provides services including cleaning, gardening, and access control through five Special Employment Centers. UNEI, meanwhile, is a leader in employment for people with disabilities in Andalusia, with 2,100 employees (87% with disabilities), and will celebrate its 35th anniversary in 2026.
