With all the challenges in floriculture at home and abroad, the question was how last year would go. Nevertheless, 2024 has generally been a good year for the Kenyan grower, says Aart Buizer of Fresco Flowers.
Challenges
"Of course, there were plenty of challenges that have been extensively discussed and written about in the past year. We are talking about managing FCM (False Codling Moth), the prolonged cold period from July to October, and the widely discussed logistical challenges. The latter, by the way, applied to the entire chain," he shares.
"Pricing on the auction was characterized by deep lows," Aart continues. "But fortunately, there were also prolonged stable periods. As a result, average prices over the whole year turned out positive."
Good prices for growers
Fresco Flowers is, therefore, very happy. "We had good prices for our growers, growth in volume, and the introduction of many new and young crops last year. In addition, we are very happy with the product quality and the strides made in efficiency."
All this gives the company great confidence for 2025. The year is off to an unprecedented start in terms of pricing, Aart shares. "This is mainly due to the limited supply of flowers from Kenya and Ethiopia, combined with the excellent quality of roses."
Chinese New Year
As far as air freight toward Valentine's Day is concerned, the worst pressure seems to be off due to the Chinese New Year at the end of January. "Still, we have no illusions: the supply of flowers from Kenya will undoubtedly experience some difficulties for a few days," he concludes. "The challenges are significant, but the opportunities are even greater. 2025 promises to be a promising year."
For more information:
Aart Buizer
Fresco Flowers
Tel: 0613130231
[email protected]
www.frescoflowers.nl