Pico Bello Hortensia, Opti-flor and Afriflora named winners of the 2024 Dutch Flower Awards

Putting growers in the spotlight

Prior to the awards ceremony (which took place on 6 November at the RFH Aalsmeer Trade Fair), buyers from various Dutch Flower Group (DFG) companies visited the nine nominated growers to celebrate their achievements in getting through to the final round. Excitement continued to build as the event approached, and many DFG partners and business associates were present to witness this special occasion.

Dutch Flower Awards were handed out for three categories: Cut Flowers, Plants, and Foreign Suppliers. Pico Bello Hortensia was selected as the winner of the Cut Flowers category. The Plants category Award went to Opti-flor and Afriflora was declared the winner in the Foreign Suppliers category.

Recognising in-sector cooperation

As a token of appreciation for their significant contribution to the floriculture sector, Matthijs Mesken and Floor Schamp from VGB, as well as Sylvie Mamias from Union Fleurs (International Flower Trade Association), were also honoured.

Milestones reached in 2024 and looking ahead

Before the Awards ceremony got underway, DFG CEO Jan van Dam gave an update on recent developments at the company and reported on significant milestones reached during the past year. DFG sales for 2024 are expected to hit €2.3 billion, which represents a year-on-year increase of almost 5%.

He also took the opportunity to emphasise the importance of flowers and plants for human wellbeing, and underlined the power of partnership: “Close cooperation with our growers is essential for continued innovation and increasing our focus on sustainability, so we can all stand strong together in the future.”