International recognition for cut flower and bulb production
In partnership with Founding Partner, FloraCulture International (FCI), the awards recognise best practice in horticultural production. In addition to a category for ‘Cut Flowers, Foliage and Bulbs’ there are also categories for ‘Young Plants’ and ‘Finished Plants and Trees’ as well as two new categories for 2018.
For 2018, all award entrants will be invited to put their business forward for the new AIPH ‘Sustainability’ award. The award will recognise the best practice and innovation in improving sustainability in areas including water use, chemical use, climate change, energy use, transportation, labour management and social standards. Also new for 2018 is the AIPH ‘Inspiring Business’ award which is looking for small businesses that demonstrate unique qualities and innovation. Grower businesses with less than ten employees (full-time equivalent) can apply.
Earlier this year Flores El Caprio, Colombia, took home the Gold for ‘Cut Flowers, Foliage & Bulbs’, as well as the overall IGOTY award. “It’s a very emotional ceremony and this prize is for our workers! At this award you are surrounded by the biggest and best in the world, so you should be there.” Carlos Manuel Uribe, MD, Flores El Caprio.
The coveted Gold Rose winner is one of the largest chrysanthemum growers and container exporters in Colombia, and the world. Delivering flowers to customers using pioneering sea freight and innovative packaging, its container packed cut flowers reach the most distant markets. These include Australia, with a transit time that exceeds thirty days. Today, Caprio’s planted area covers 75 hectares, with plans to both reach 100 hectares and increase productivity to meet with customer demand.
The jury praised the company for “not only being a good example for the Colombian ornamental industry, but with its sea freight program, a worldwide example.”
Due to popular demand the awards will again take place during IPM Essen, Germany. The event commences with a drinks reception, followed by a gourmet gala dinner and awards ceremony. After the awards, there will be an evening of celebration with live entertainment and international networking.
The deadline for entries is 15 July 2017. Last year ornamentals growers from Colombia, Russia, the Netherlands, China, Denmark, the UK and Belgium were IGOTY finalists.
For more information:
www.aiph.org/groweroftheyear