Differentiated levy based on Quality Index as of the 1st April

Together, we are working to further digitalize and future-proof our auction. Correct supply information plays a crucial role in this. Last year, extra care was taken to check that the information and photo accompanying the product were correct. Most auction supply already has the correct and complete supply information. However, there is definitely room for improvement.

The Quality Index allows Royal FloraHolland to indicate on the clock front how reliable the supply information is that a grower submits with the Electronic Delivery Form (EAB). This is calculated over a period of 62 weeks. The index indicates how well the photo, inspection and grading characteristics match the product. Inspector Kor Heemskerk: "If things don't add up, you lose buyers because of unreliability. In digital commerce, this is even more important, because very often customers don’t see the product up close anymore. We like customers to receive what they think they’re buying."

What will change from 1 April?
From April, growers supplying to auction will pay a differentiated levy per error detected. This levy is based on a grower's Quality Index. In short, a grower with an A score on the Quality Index will pay less, a B grower the same, and a C grower more. We already introduced the advent of this change at the end of 2022. Meanwhile, all growers have also been personally informed through e-mailings, newsletters and information on our website.

Why are we doing this?
Accuracy and completeness of supply information leads to higher buyer satisfaction and, ultimately, optimal pricing for both grower and buyer. Buyers currently report insufficient confidence in the accuracy and completeness of supply information. We see this reflected in the complaints and surveys conducted among buyers.

From April onwards, the vast majority of growers will pay less than they do now. Growers with a C score together account for only 5% of all auction supply. However, this part does result in 35% of all auction complaints. This is why the cost for C growers will soon be going up in the event of an error detection. Although we don’t expect this step to improve the quality of the products themselves, it does allow us to encourage growers to provide accurate and complete supply information.

If you would like to know more about QI and the extent of the levies, please have a look here. If you want to know how we help growers improve supply information, take a look at the free approval inspection.

Any questions?
Our Customer Contact Centre is at your service from Monday to Thursday from 05:30 - 17:00 and on Friday from 05:30 - 16:00 at +31 88 789 89 89.