Entrepreneurship over the years

Past

"Orchids grow all over the world. Not only in Asia, as people sometimes think. We also have orchids in the Netherlands. My father started experimenting with varieties and genetics of plants that do well in cooler climates, so you don't have to heat as much. It was successful. Where we are, it's extremely cold in the greenhouse in winter. Nine degrees is no problem. Because of what he set in motion, we now consume substantially less energy. Which is great, especially with the skyrocketing prices. I think it is extraordinary that we managed to do this."

Present

"My brother and I are continuing our father's line. We are now looking at more sustainable lighting with LEDs and a misting system, to increase production per square metre. We also continue to experiment with varieties. In our greenhouse, we have reserved a special corner for this purpose. Our 'knoll garden' we sometimes call it. Experimentation takes quite some time. We grow the plants from the bottle, and that can take as long as three years to get to a flowering plant. Patience and precise planning are indispensable."

‍Future

"Because our cultivation is relatively long, it is difficult to look far ahead. However, my brother and I are committed to broadening our product range. Besides cambria, golden shower orchid and cymbidium, we are increasingly looking at special varieties. As a result, we can offer a new treat for our buyers every time. A wide range also make us more attractive to buyers, I expect. It makes our business more resilient into the future."