GreenTech, the international horticultural trade fair, is set to experience significant growth this year with 525 stands. According to Mariska Dreschler, the Director of Horticulture – GreenTech Global, themes such as chemical-free farming and renewable energy are trending in the industry, also there is a growing emphasis on biodiversity and socially responsible entrepreneurship. Mariska also notes that sustainability is not just about what suppliers deliver but how they operate their own businesses.
The Amsterdam RAI will once again transform into a global hub for the horticultural industry from June 13-15. Compared to last year, the trade fair has expanded by one hall to accommodate the increasing number of exhibitors. Mariska explains that there is a new energy in the industry, with companies focused on innovation in both solutions and operations. Key topics for this year’s event include Integrated Pest Management, renewable energy, zero environmental footprint, and maintaining product quality while reducing costs. AI and robotics remain important subjects due to labor shortages, and biodiversity is also gaining importance.
Pre-registration for visitors has been steadily increasing, with a notable number of 14 sign-ups from trade missions, including South Korea, China, Canada, America, Romania, and Bulgaria. GreenTech collaborates with all industry stakeholders, from suppliers and the government to major trade organizations such as AVAG, Topsector Horticulture & Starting Materials, RVO Enterprise Europe Network, FarmTech Society, and DGD.
This year, access to the trade fair is free for those invited by an exhibitor, while other visitors can purchase tickets. This is partly to enhance the quality of visitors but also to ensure the quality of the knowledge programs. “GreenTech is investing heavily in these programs and pavilions, such as on renewables and robotics, to make the event as attractive as possible.”
GreenTech also offers various side programs that showcase trends and new initiatives in the horticultural industry. Financing is a critical issue for both growers and suppliers and in response, an ‘Investors Challenge’ has been organized, allowing start-ups to pitch their concepts to potential investors. The cannabis pavilion has been expanded to focus on compounds as a whole, demonstrating technologies that can be used for multiple crops. This is in response to the growing demand for active ingredients in taste, health, and beauty products, with covered farming playing a crucial role. Then, for the ‘Powerday’ program invites Dutch and international growers to discuss sustainable food production for the future. During this day, GreenTech seeks to connect with stakeholders outside the horticultural industry as well.
“We now have 525 stands, and there may be a few more, but we are delighted that we have 525 fantastic market leaders and innovators who visitors can connect with,” says Mariska. “We are extremely proud of these international companies, which showcase their new knowledge gained worldwide on their stands, and I expect that they will have a successful trade fair.”
