Next Step towards 100% Certification Sustainability

With the adoption of the definition of “small-scale grower” for “the Global North” by the Floriculture Sustainability Initiative (FSI) board, it is now known which growers qualify for the simplified certification scheme. This marks the next concrete step towards 100% sustainability certification in 2027. An ambition for which sector organisations from the floriculture sector, including the Floriculture Accelerators, the FSI Accelerators Group, sector organisation VGB and Royal FloraHolland, have joined forces. With the announcement of the turnover definition for small-scale growers, this group can also prepare for FSI certification in their business.

The definition adopted by the FSI Board focuses on small-scale growers with a total annual business turnover from floriculture products of less than €250,000 who do business in ‘the Global North’ (mainly Europe and Israel). Now that the definition is known, the project group will start working out the certification scheme. This will be done in cooperation with MPS and GLOBALG.A.P. and in consultation with growers and buyers. This will involve working toward a set of criteria to ensure that the standards available to producers are cost-effective, meet FSI’s needs and are equivalent in design. It is expected that FSI will announce these criteria after the summer and small-scale growers can start certification through MPS or GLOBALG.A.P. in early 2025. For growers in other countries, FSI will announce the definition at a later date, taking into account specific conditions and solutions already in place.

Simple and affordable
“As previously communicated, the offering, trading and settlement of flowers and plants through the Royal FloraHolland platform will move to 100% certified by 2027. Step by step, according to FSI requirements,” says Steven van Schilfgaarde, CEO of Royal FloraHolland. “To achieve that, the definition and timeline for certification for all growers are crucial. For this group of small-scale growers, the definition is now clear; I am pleased with this clarity. The next step is the further development of the simplified and cheaper scheme. FSI will realize this – in consultation with MPS and GLOBALG.A.P. and in consultation with small-scale members and suppliers – this summer. This method ensures that the daily practices of this group of growers and their needs are taken into account. With the new schedule for small-scale growers, we ensure that everyone can continue to participate. Precisely this group also ensures a broad and varied supply on the global floriculture market. Crucial for the sector, the supply chain and the attractiveness of the Royal FloraHolland platform.”

Clarity and direction
Small-scale members within the auction clock Focus member pack who meet this definition must at least comply with the small-scale growers scheme within two years of the availability of the scheme, but no earlier than 1/1/2027. Small-scale members within the auction clock Flex, Direct Flex and Direct Focus member packs, as well as suppliers who fall within the stated definition, can also take advantage of this opportunity. However, they will be expected to meet demonstrably verifiable certification requirements no later than Jan. 1, 2026.

This definition and working method helps the sector move forward in the collective path that growers and trade are taking towards a more sustainable and transparent floriculture industry. On the Royal FloraHolland platform, we encourage transparency by listing certificates, for both direct trade (Floriday) and on the auction clock. Royal FloraHolland will support and guide small-scale members and suppliers on their way to certification according to FSI requirements. With a step-by-step approach, all members and suppliers will be phased towards full FSI compliance by 2027.