On Friday, January 9 2026, the initiators of the petition "Stop mandatory FSI certification" formally submitted the petition to the management of Royal FloraHolland (RFH). With more than 850 signatories, the petition represents a group of growers, suppliers and Floriday users who are concerned about the mandatory introduction of FSI certification.
© Petitie
The petition was launched in response to RFH's decision to make FSI certification compulsory. Under the current policy, the requirement will apply to most growers from 1 January 2026, and from 1 July 2027 for members with a Clock Focus package. The initiators argue that this obligation undermines the voluntary nature of the cooperative and results in additional costs, increased administrative burden and reduced freedom of choice for growers.
According to the signatories, mandatory FSI certification does not automatically lead to greater sustainability in the sector and creates an uneven playing field, as FSI is a private initiative without formal legal status under Dutch law. In addition to concerns about the added burden, many growers feel that critical perspectives receive little attention in RFH's communications.
By submitting the petition, the initiators are calling on RFH's management to abandon mandatory FSI certification and replace it with a voluntary, feasible and broadly supported approach. They also request greater transparency and an open dialogue with members on sustainability measures, as well as support for alternatives that promote sustainability without placing a disproportionate burden on small and medium-sized growers.
The initiative group emphasises that they are not opposed to certification in principle, but to its content and compulsory nature. In parallel, they are working on proposals for alternative solutions that are affordable, practical and future-proof for all growers.
The handover of the petition marks an important moment in the ongoing debate. A follow-up meeting is expected to take place to continue discussions on possible adjustments to the policy surrounding FSI certification.
For more information:
Petition Initiators
Pieter Damen 06 54261473
Paul Koenraadt 06 13082693
Sjaak van der Ploeg 06 52621191
Lex van der Zwet 06 22122953
