After no less than 45 years of working in the plant world, Martien Komen will retire on July 1, 2025. Not because he has to, but because he can. "I'm turning 70. It's about time to put the phone on silent and just have a cup of coffee without immediately having to do something."
Martien's career started in a rather unexpected way. "I had just graduated in physiotherapy, and the very next day I started in the plant trade. There was work, I jumped in, and I never got out again." Fifteen years in export, fifteen in mediation, and another fifteen as an independent entrepreneur: Martien has seen it all. From Sions Plant to Zurel, from Intratuin and Royal Eveleens to Sieraforen, and then the auctions in Rijnsburg and Naaldwijk.
© Martien Komen
Fulfillment
"I've always had something with plants. But it was mostly the unpredictability that made it so enjoyable," he says. "You don't know in the morning what you'll have done by the evening. The job forces you to constantly adapt. And that suits me."
The work also gave Martien a great sense of fulfillment. "I could really mean something to customers and be of service in my own way. You contribute to something beautiful. You start with an idea, and a year later it's on store shelves. And when a customer is satisfied—well, then you've had a good day."
Grandchildren
Martien is mainly looking forward to some peace and quiet. "I've always been ruled by my phone. Now I hope to have time for my grandchildren. I hardly saw my own kids growing up—that was just how it was back then. As a father, you worked, and some things got neglected. I hope to have more time for that now."
He finds it a shame that expertise seems to be getting lost. "Knowledge is no longer the leading factor—price is. That's unfortunate. At the same time, the job itself hasn't changed much. Customers still want something beautiful, something that suits them. And as a product specialist, you can still provide that. That's still where the satisfaction lies. We're still managing expectations—a nice modern term."
Grateful
His customers and growers will be taken over by Rik Zuidervliet (Growing Success), Ad van der Knaap, and a few will continue independently.
Martien closes with a heartfelt thank-you: "I've met many people and worked with so many. Too many to thank individually. But know this: I truly appreciate it. It's been a wonderful time. Thank you!"
Want to contact Martien? You can reach him at [email protected]
