Colombia’s Chrysanthemum Industry Attracts Dutch Breeding Company
Colombia, known for its sprawling flower production covering over 10,000 hectares, has piqued the interest of breeders worldwide. Among them is the Dutch breeding company Royal Van Zanten, a longstanding player in the Colombian agricultural landscape with diverse crops. However, their sights are now set on a more focused and ambitious journey within the Colombian chrysanthemum market.
Royal Van Zanten’s most renowned chrysanthemum variety, Bonita, has earned its place as a decorative chrysanthemum type, establishing a solid reputation over the years. In their pursuit of growth and innovation, the company has unveiled two striking additions to their portfolio: Bonita Sunny and Bonita Orange, thereby expanding their offerings to a trio of captivating chrysanthemum varieties.
These newcomers share the essential attributes of their predecessor, Bonita, boasting an impressive vase life of 22 days. What sets them apart, however, is their compatibility with containers for ocean shipping, a sustainable alternative that is fast gaining favor among growers looking to reduce their ecological footprint.
In the quest for sustainability, Royal Van Zanten is dedicated to minimizing its environmental impact. The company is making substantial strides towards greener operations and has already channeled investments in this direction. With a forward-looking approach, Royal Van Zanten is committed to developing more sustainable chrysanthemum varieties. These efforts aim to lower the ecological footprint per stem, aligning with their vision for a more environmentally responsible industry.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is also underscored by the release of their inaugural ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) report, titled #wecaresoweact. This report not only outlines their sustainability objectives but also renders their actions transparent and tangible. As Royal Van Zanten consistently strives for excellence, their dedication to creating equal opportunities for growth and enhancing sustainability remains paramount.
In the competitive world of flower cultivation, collaboration is often the key to success. Tjomme Gerbranda, Area Export Manager at Royal Van Zanten, emphasizes the importance of unity in growth. With their commercial team in Colombia, the company is diligently working to elevate its visibility in the market. This endeavor involves strengthening connections across the entire supply chain, from breeders to growers, importers, and wholesalers. Furthermore, Royal Van Zanten is committed to being present when consumers purchase flowers through diverse distribution channels, ensuring that their products reach the widest audience possible.
Royal Van Zanten’s journey in the Colombian chrysanthemum market is marked by ambition, sustainability, and a commitment to innovation. With their expanded chrysanthemum range and a resolute focus on eco-friendly practices, they aim to leave a lasting imprint on Colombia’s flourishing flower industry.