During a surprise party last week, Rob Baan's amazed expression wasn't due to sampling a new plant. Instead, he was honored for his contributions to horticulture with the Baanbrekend Award, a silver medal of honor, and a big celebration. "You have given horticulture a face," he was told.
And there's the surprise moment. Rob, of course, flanked by his wife Jolanda.
Last year, after 25 years, Rob Baan handed over the management of his company, Koppert Cress, to his son, Stijn Baan. Yesterday, amidst a day full of surprises, we reflected on this significant transition. The festivities kicked off with the Journey through the Dutch Lunch Culture event, where Rob received the first Baanbrekend Award. This award, initiated by the province of South Holland, honors individuals who passionately promote healthy food in the workplace. Deputy Mariëtte van Leeuwen presented the award, praising Rob for his years of dedication to bringing together chefs, doctors, farmers, and gardeners across various sectors.
Silver medal of honor from the Municipality of Westland
Later in the day, Rob was surprised with a silver medal of honor from the municipality of Westland. This occurred during a large surprise party at the Monster company's "edible jungle," attended by hundreds of guests from both his personal and professional life.
Mayor Bouke Arends presented the award to Rob, stating, "You have not only built a successful company, but you've also given the sector a recognizable identity. This identity represents health, sustainability, and progress. You have demonstrated that horticulture goes beyond mere production by connecting food and health. You've shown that the Westland is not just about greenhouses; it's a hub for knowledge, innovation, and community engagement."
Presentation of the silver medal of honor by Bouke Arends, mayor of Westland
During his speech, Bouke recalled a previous visit to Koppert Cress where Rob had him taste a young plant to illustrate a point: "This is health in its purest form." Bouke noted that this approach embodies Rob's character, focused not on promoting a product, but on a deeper mission. He described Rob as someone who has brought attention to the role of food in society and demonstrated that horticulture carries a social responsibility.
The municipal government of Westland highlighted in its decision that awarding the honorary medal was not just for Rob's entrepreneurial achievements but also for his ability to connect people both within and beyond the sector. The medal acknowledges his efforts in promoting Westland as a region known for its knowledge and expertise.
Peter Oei, Bart van Meurs (Division Q), and Maurice Wubben
Wouter Kuiper, KUBO and An Beekenkamp, Beekenkamp Plants
Joint effort
Despite the many kind words, Rob was briefly speechless. However, he quickly recovered and acknowledged the support of his team, family, and the entire sector. "It's been worth it," he said, but emphasized that the work isn't done. "This space must continue to be a place for children, chefs, and adults. We must keep linking health and nutrition."
While Rob suggested he would like to spend more time abroad in the future, he also made it clear that he would continue his mission to raise awareness about the connection between nutrition, lifestyle, and health, and the essential role horticulture plays in this. But first, it was time to celebrate. After the speeches, guests headed to the Cresstival festival grounds, where even more current and former employees joined the festivities.
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For more information:
Koppert Cress
Tel: +31 174 242 819
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www.koppertcress.com