FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair: a real trade fair

The FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair takes place in Naaldwijk from 19 March to 21 March 2013 (Wednesday to Friday). Many hundreds of growers will be presenting their ready-for-sale products and concepts to (end) customers. Wilma van Straalen, Trade Fair & Events Coordinator, tells us what’s going to take place.
Why the new name 'FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair'?
"The new name emphasises the fact that Naaldwijk's trade fair is a truly seasonal event. The trade fairs in Aalsmeer and Naaldwijk have very different characters. Aalsmeer is chiefly an inspiration and networking event. Naaldwijk is more of a trade fair, with many spring products. That hasn't changed, but we have adapted the name to reflect the differences in character between the two fairs."
How much interest have exhibitors shown?
"Although we've increased the floor area by about another 10% (up to 11,000 m2), the trade fair is full again. So, there's more space for exhibitors. We have many regular participants, but also new ones. They all want to meet their customers and end customers. In addition to ready-for-sale products, they'll be presenting the customised services that their companies can provide. Everything is designed to boost their sales."
How is the members/non-members policy implemented at the trade fair?
"Only members and aspiring members will have a stand at the FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair. Non-members and contract suppliers are excluded."
How will traders respond to the FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair?
"In different ways. One trading company is organising its own open days for its customers at the same time and combining that with a visit to the trade fair. Other traders visit the trade fair alone or with end customers. In Aalsmeer, (end) customers come to see the whole spectrum of products and to get inspired. In Naaldwijk, more topical products are available and basically more orders are placed."
Are there any special pavilions?
"Naaldwijk also differs in this from Aalsmeer. In Aalsmeer, the setting is targeted primarily at inspiring and presenting trends. In Naaldwijk, we present innovations awarded the Glass Tulip and the new products of 2014 in our Innovations Pavilion. There's also a special Container Plant Square. That's where growers of container plants show the breadth of their range as well as the application of the product. In doing so, we focus on the ways we can extend the container plant season, and on the presentation of container plants for the UK market."
The FloraHolland Seasonal Trade Fair takes place in Naaldwijk from 19 March to 21 March 2013. On Wednesday and Thursday, the fair is open from 09:00 to 17:00, and on Friday from 09.00 to 16.00. To register and/or find more information on the trade fair, please visit