With an extensive production area in Uganda, a brand new logistics center in the Netherlands, a greatly expanded product range, and a likewise growing customer base, cuttings supplier D.J. Hendriksen is doing well. "Our reputation as a supplier of unrooted cuttings is growing, and the investments we have made are paying off."
Farm manager Charles with a lavender. On the right, different types of climbing plants.
That's what owner and farm manager Simon Hendriksen tells us. In search of a definitive explanation, several factors can be identified. One reason probably has to do with scale. "Because we are a relatively small company, there is a lot of personal contact with our customers. That is appreciated," he says. "With other 'big' cutting suppliers you can be unlucky that your product no longer fits in the program. We enter into a relationship with our customers, often organize joint trials and keep short lines of communication."
Climbing plants are also doing well
In addition, setting up a production company in Uganda turns out to be a smart move. "The climate there is very stable, so the basis is excellent. We've been there for about eleven or twelve years now, but we recently started new trials with a new assortment to see whether the cuttings would be of sufficient quality. Those trials went very well, the results were very good and we are now reaping the benefits of that."
On safari
Given the current energy prices, growers are looking for products that can be cultivated all year round, without having to heat or light in the winter. "Then, you quickly end up with plants like hebe or lavender, buddleja (butterfly bush), corokia (zigzag plant), and mandevilla. You don't just switch to a completely different assortment or way of growing, but we do see it happen because of the interest in our plants."
Son Quinten at the Golden Quinten named after him
Simon himself goes to Uganda about four times a year for a week. With a bit of luck, he will soon be going there with his wife Corina, son Quinten and daughters Lindsey and Rosalie for six months. "We would like to map out the processes over time and optimize them further. In doing so, we also want to be able to welcome our customers."
The guesthouse
Vacancy
Our company continues to grow. Last year we sold about 10% more cuttings. We want to continue to grow not only in sales but also in quality and professionalism. With more customers, there is no time to sit around; indeed, there is a risk of work being left behind. "Regardless of whether or not our travel plans go through, we would love to have someone there for sales or sales support."
For more information:
D.J. Hendriksen & Zn BV
Burgemeester Smitweg 95
2391 NG Hazerswoude Dorp
+31 (0)172 587403
info@djhendriksen.nl
www.djhendriksen.nl