Things are hotting up over in the Netherlands as exhibitors from around the world get ready to showcase their 22/23 collections in front of thousands of visitors from 9 - 11th November.
At the newly named Expo Greater Amsterdam in Vijfhuize, the appropriate to sector complex of enormous glasshouses the International Floricultural Trade Fair (IFTF) will play host to some 300 exhibitors from around the globe.
It may not have quite as many design ideas – although in fairness last year it was here we actually saw some of our faves! - but when it comes to seeing a showcase of the global supply lines within the flower and plant sector it is one of the best and in our view an absolute must see just to savour all the fabulous flowers available, especially roses and spot the new varieties from the breeders as a taste of things to come and perfect for sharing on your socials!
What’s more this show has a whole host of technical stands which give a fascinating insight into what goes into growing the flowers which we personally think is pretty cool and they are hosting a unique conference about Sea freight – it’s sold out but we’ll be there so will bring you the latest intel.
Over at the Aalsmeer based Royal FloraHolland Trade Fair there will be more that 550 exhibitors taking part – including some of the top players like Marginpar who’s stand is always a delight, a collection of cool chrysanthemum designs from the Just Chrys people and of course hundreds and hundreds of the local Dutch plant growers showcasing their latest lines – if you are looking for Santa Clause and glittered plants this is a deffo!
It’s larger and there are more displays of floristry plus loads of display ideas you can use in the shop so you will absolutely need a whole day and a fully charged phone for all the pics you’ll take but it’s worth the sore feet! Oh yes and if you have time and energy it’s also possible to visit Waterdrinker who will be holding their famous open days throughout the week with thousands of products on display and some cool trend stories too.
In terms of getting there, both locations are within easy reach of Schipol Airport and the surrounding hotels (we are staying at The Florian) but if you are going to try and do both in one day (we wouldn’t recommend it but if you walk really fast just about doable) you’ll need to pick up a taxi from the ranks outside to get you from one to the other.
IFTF are running a shuttle bus morning and evening from the van Gough museum – useful if you decide to stay in town rather than one of the airport hotels – but otherwise it is buses or taxis ... both very easy.
Entry is free to bona fide trade visitors but you need to pre-register for both using the links below. And if you see our Editor in the aisles do stop and say hello ... or even better take a selfie and she'll share!
