"Conifers may be the unsung heroes of the plant world, but they truly deserve more attention," says Liesbeth van Woudenberg of Bremmer Nurseries. "Especially now, as biodiversity and sustainable gardening become increasingly important. Conifers are long-lasting, versatile, and maintain their ornamental value for years. Birds and hedgehogs find shelter in them, and they are perfect for creating a vibrant, year-round green garden."
© Oliver MathysLiesbeth van Woudenberg and Paul Bremmer of Bremmer Nurseries joined Oliver Mathys at the event
Bremmer Boomkwekerijen's plants, along with those of dozens of other growers, were featured on the POS Green Solution Islands at Spoga+Gafa—the world's largest garden and BBQ trade fair—held in Cologne at the end of June. With the overarching theme of 'Four Seasons', the POS islands demonstrated how retailers can present their products throughout the year. The displays ranged from compact 1.5 m² layouts to full setups of 20 m² and were tailored to various sales channels.
This year's emphasis was on outdoor experiences, a theme that, according to Oliver Mathys—organiser of the POS Green Solution Islands—resonates well with the current mood:
"Visitors increasingly see the fair as a meeting place, and it offers plenty of inspiration for outdoor living. The 'Outdoor Adventure' section attracted a lot of attention this year and will even have an additional hall next year—that speaks volumes."
© Oliver Mathys
Dutch growers and breeders
This was the seventh year that Oliver Mathys organised the POS Green Solution Islands. In addition to Bremmer Boomkwekerijen, several other Dutch growers and breeders participated, including Moerings Waterplanten, Hilverda Florist, KP Holland, Van Woudenberg Tuinplanten, Addenda, De Fruithof, Luiten Kwekerij, Anthura, and La Bio. Themes such as biodiversity, wildlife-friendly gardening, and edible plants were also featured. Dedicated areas included displays for bird and animal feed, and fruit trees quite literally took the spotlight.
© Oliver Mathys
Liesbeth attended the fair in Cologne and reflects positively on the experience:
"Oliver specially selected potted conifers for us to be part of a Christmas-themed display. It's always rewarding to see your products showcased at such an event. We attend many fairs, but this one truly focuses on sparking inspiration. I came home with fresh ideas myself."
© Oliver Mathys
Practical applicability
What sets the POS islands apart, says Oliver, is their hands-on practicality:
"What matters most to me is that every visitor walks away with ideas they can easily implement in their business within the next few weeks or months."
Feedback from a wide range of European visitors confirms the approach is working.
"You can sense that the market is shifting. That's exactly why events like these are so important—they help us keep moving forward."
For more information:
Oliver Mathys
+31 (0)6 50 821 673
[email protected]
https://www.oliver-m-consulting.com/nl/home
Liesbeth van Woudenberg
Bremmer Boomkwekerijen
+31 (0)6 42 38 71 57
[email protected]
www.bremmer-boomkwekerijen.nl
