"In a couple of weeks, we will start supplying the buyers in the Netherlands and we will explore the European market gradually afterwards", says Kashany M, the inventor of this concept and co-owner of the Sydney, Australia, based company. And to be closer to the Kenyan growers and to reduce paperwork when the cargo is consolidated to the Netherlands, he even set up an office in Kenya.
Roses grown at a Colombian farm that offers its flowers on FreshBids' auctioning platform.
Direct from the grower
FreshBids runs live auctions on the internet for perishable products globally. These auctions are worldwide and international buyers can buy fresh produce direct from FreshBids' local and global growers. "The auctions are live Dutch auctions, which means that they have a starting price and the price reduces until the whole batch is sold or the grower’s reserve is reached", says Kashany. Click here for more information about the platform and its benefits that we've published in a previous article on FloralDaily.com.
FreshBids' auctioning platform.
To Europe
Since its launch, FreshBids has chosen to capitalise on supplying the Australian wholesalers and florists first and go international afterwards. "Logistically speaking, shipping from Kenya and Colombia to Australia entails more challenges than shipping to Europe. These routes are already explored", says Kashany.
The Netherlands will be the first European country that they will ship flowers to. "We will initially run 1-2 auctions weekly adding more auctions and products on the platform progressively. Our logistical partners will carry the cargo to Amsterdam and further arrangements can be made by the buyers for pick up points and drop off destinations. The bidders will be offered landed price ex Amsterdam airport and any additional shipment clearing and delivery charges will be borne by the customers."
Kenyan farm.
Office Kenya
FreshBids established an office in Kenya in order to be closer to growers and to enable them to perform quality checks regularly. In addition it reduces excess documentation when the cargo is consolidated destined for the Netherlands.
Colombian farm.
Next step: Asia
Entering the Asian market will be their next goal. "In the past, there were no direct flights from Kenya to China, but there are now. So we are planning to ship fresh flowers not only to China but to all countries in the continent of Asia."
For more information
Freshbids
Kashany M
Email: mkashany@freshbids.com.au
www.freshbids.com.au