For nearly four decades, Dutch young plant grower Maarten Bloemen has witnessed steady growth and transformation within his business. What started as Ornamental Plant Nursery Maarten Bloemen V.O.F. in 1987 has evolved into Bloemen Young Plants, marking not only a change in name but also in the company’s trajectory.
Initially focusing on a diverse range of plants, including ready-to-deliver products, the company transitioned its specialization to acidophilous shrubs after a decade. In recent years, Bloemen Young Plants has honed its focus on the production of reproductive materials, specializing in rooted cuttings and planting materials while actively engaging in the production of newly patented varieties.
While expansion wasn’t a priority for many years, the company embarked on a significant growth journey starting in 2010, with key developments occurring in 2014-2015. After navigating through various paperwork and administrative processes, the green light for expansion was finally granted in 2019. Over the course of 2021 and 2022, Bloemen Young Plants tripled its surface area, expanding from 1.5 hectares to an impressive 4 hectares. This expansion includes a 2-hectare greenhouse, a 2.5-hectare container field, storage and processing areas, loading docks, and a 1 million-liter water basin for optimal water management.
This expansion translated into remarkable growth in production, with the company’s plant output surging from 900,000 to over 2 million plants. Additionally, Bloemen Young Plants diversified its assortment significantly, adding a wide range of shrubs to its offerings.
With the expansion phase successfully completed, the focus has shifted to consolidation. The company is particularly pleased with the outcomes of the past season, which saw the integration of production, processing, and sales operations. A strategic decision to discontinue production at two rental locations has also improved logistical efficiency.
Today, Bloemen Young Plants is a family-owned business run by Maarten, his wife Jacqueline, and their son Merijn, who recently became a co-owner of the company. Merijn, having dedicated more than a decade to the company, primarily oversees cultivation, while Jacqueline handles administration and human resources.
Looking ahead, the Bloemen family is determined to make the most of their extensive experience and the strong foundation they have built. With two hectares of undeveloped land on hand, the company plans to further expand its operations in the coming years, maximizing its growth potential. As the next generation takes the reins, Bloemen Young Plants is well-positioned for a thriving future in the horticulture industry.