In the first half of 2025, Veiling Rhein-Maas achieved a product turnover of €245 million, coming close to the revenue levels of the past two years. "The first half of the year was mainly characterized by lower volumes and a decline in average prices. In addition, unfavorable weather conditions in Central Europe and key import countries at the beginning of the year had a negative impact. Sharp fluctuations in temperature also affected the market, particularly the sales of seasonal outdoor plants," said managing directors Günther Esser and Cees Hoekstra. A cautious attitude among consumers also led to reduced demand for flowers and plants. "Despite these challenging conditions, we were able to realize a product turnover that is nearly equal to that of the previous two years. This reflects our potential for the second half of the year and beyond."
Market information
In the cut flower auction segment, volumes toward the end of the first half of the year were clearly higher than in the same period last year, and the overall supply was good. However, sales figures remained relatively weak, partly due to significant daily temperature variations that caused price fluctuations. Compared to last year, the volume of cut flowers was lower, and average prices—especially after mid-May—also declined. This downward trend was already noticeable earlier in the year, particularly for tulips and imported flowers such as roses and gypsophila, due to reduced production caused by cold nights in several African regions.
March and April showed positive results for potted plants in terms of prices and volumes. However, average prices were only higher than last year at the beginning of 2025. For bedding plants, June sales were average, with prices generally lower than in the same period last year, except for the Pentecost week. Edible crops such as vegetables and herbs underperformed in June, and the large group of perennials also trailed behind the first half of 2024. An exception was Echinacea, which showed higher volumes and good sales, though at slightly lower average prices. Sales of houseplants exceeded last year's results in the first half of 2025.
For cut flowers sold via the Clock Service channel, stable volumes and a slight increase in revenue were achieved compared to the same period last year, with roses and chrysanthemums performing particularly well. Sales of all subcategories of potted plants through the Clock Service channel also increased in the first six months. Among houseplants, arrangements saw notable growth, while in garden plants, hydrangeas and pansies showed positive development.
The week leading up to Mother's Day was generally satisfactory, with figures similar to last year. It is expected to be the highest-grossing week again in 2025. Customers also reported strong sales. The high volumes were managed well both commercially and logistically—on the Monday before Mother's Day alone, more than 13,000 trolleys of flowers and plants were traded.
As of June 25, the Clock Presale (Klokvoorverkoop) sales channel is only accessible via Veiling Rhein-Maas' digital portal, following a technical upgrade.
Trade shows
In early June, Veiling Rhein-Maas participated in the international flower trade fair IFTEX in Nairobi, Africa's largest flower trade fair. Representatives used the opportunity to engage with current suppliers and establish new connections with growers. With nearly 200 exhibitors, this year's edition was the largest yet, underscoring Africa's growing importance as a flower producer and exporter. The next event where Veiling Rhein-Maas will be present is Florall in Waregem, Belgium, scheduled for August 26, 2025.
For more information:
Veiling Rhein-Maas
https://www.veilingrheinmaas.com/
