This year’s International Floriculture Trade Fair (IFTF) is shaping up to be the biggest yet, with record-breaking participation from flower growers worldwide. With over 150 growers representing a 10% increase from last year, this event is truly expanding as a global hub for the floriculture industry. Exhibitors this year will span 13 countries, showcasing a wide array of blooms and innovations aimed at elevating sustainable floriculture practices. So, what's happening from 5 to 7 November at IFTF?
More South America and Africa
A highlight of the IFTF this year is the increased presence from Africa and South America, with first-time participation from Uganda, which will feature six growers in its own national pavilion. Meanwhile, Ethiopia and Kenya are growing their presence, with Kenya organizing two national pavilions—one from the Agriculture Ministry and another by the Kenya Flower Council (KFC)—along with individual exhibitors. South America is well-represented by 98 Colombian and Ecuadorian growers, emphasizing the importance of these regions in the global floral trade.
Come to Expo Haarlemmermeer in Vijfhuizen
Hosted at the Expo Haarlemmermeer in Vijfhuizen, Netherlands, IFTF is renowned for fostering industry connections while showcasing everything from new flower varieties and sustainable production methods to technology designed to make operations more efficient. As floriculture continues to focus on sustainability, many exhibitors are spotlighting environmentally friendly practices like water-efficient growing and eco-friendly packaging. Innovation in floral displays is also expected, with florists and floral designers presenting imaginative creations that reflect the latest trends.
Floriforum With DFG's CEO Jan van Dam
Union Fleurs – International Flower Trade Association and FSI – Floriculture Sustainability Initiative have announced Jan van Dam, CEO of Dutch Flower Group, as the keynote speaker to open this year's Floriforum, taking place on Monday 4 November afternoon on the eve of the opening of IFTF. He will set the scene and inspire the afternoon program with stimulating perspectives on the theme “Cultivating Sustainability Together – Shaping Tomorrow’s Floriculture”.
After the keynote speech, there will be panel discussions led by a moderator. Panelists from different parts of the industry will share their thoughts and contribute to the discussion with transparent and data-driven insights. The conversation will focus on the important steps we collectively need to take for both B2B and B2C, aiming to create a unified, positive message. This approach will help sustain the future of the flowers and plants market and keep attracting the consumers of tomorrow.
The panel for 2024:
- Jan van Dam, CEO of Dutch Flower Group
- Sibbe Krol, Director of Sustainability, Bloom & Wild Group
- Yvonne Watzdorf, Managing Director of the Flower Council of Holland
- Dominic Weston, Director Product and Supply Interflora British Unit (National Unit covering UK & Ireland) and Sustainability Manager Interflora-Fleurop Global Flower Services
- On behalf of the Fairmiles initiative: Simon Derrick, Global Head of Sustainability Blue Skies, and James MacGregor, Development Economist and author of the ‘Fair Miles: recharting the food miles map’
The conversation will focus on the important steps we collectively need to take for both B2B and B2C communication, aiming to share knowledge and best practices in order to create a unified, positive message. This approach will help sustain the future of the flowers and plants market and keep attracting the consumers of tomorrow.
Professional moderator Simone van Trier will conduct the overall program and facilitate interaction and co-creation with the audience to ensure a dynamic and stimulating afternoon.
Registration to Floriforum is free of charge and still open to qualified participants directly involved in the international floriculture industry. But the seats are almost sold out. If you are not yet registered, don’t miss out, and sign up now using the conference registration form to join the conversation.
Floriforum is organized by Union Fleurs - International Flower Trade Association in partnership with FSI - Floriculture Sustainability Initiative and sponsored by HPP Worldwide and Kuehne + Nagel. It will take place on Monday 4 November 2024 from 4pm to 6pm in the auditorium of IFTF, EXPO Greater Amsterdam in Vijfhuizen, the Netherlands and will be followed by a networking cocktail at 6pm. A welcome coffee will be offered to attendees from 3 pm.
Diversity in Programs, Participants, and Innovations
With the diversity of programs, participants, and innovations on display, IFTF 2024 is set to be an unmissable event for anyone in floriculture. The event, which will run from November 5-7, will provide ample opportunities to explore floral art, make industry connections, and dive into new global trends in the floriculture space.
Where and When?
Whether you're traveling from a neighboring country or across the globe, Expo Greater Amsterdam is conveniently located with easy access from Schiphol Airport and major transport links.
Attendees are encouraged to register to secure their spot, as the event is expected to draw a large crowd once again. With over 25,000 square meters of exhibition space, it’s important to plan your visit wisely to ensure you can explore the event fully and take advantage of all the opportunities it offers.
The venue address of IFTF is:
Greater Amsterdam Expo (formerly known as Expo Haarlemmermeer)
Stelling 1, 2141 SB Vijfhuizen, Netherlands
Exhibition hours are:
- Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024, from 10:00 - 18:00
- Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024, from 10:00 - 18:00
- Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, from 10:00 - 17:00
All photos by Rob Metsers ([email protected]) courtesy of HPP.
