Next step towards 100% certification

With the FSI (Floriculture Sustainability Initiative) board's adoption of the definition of “small-scale grower” for the Global North, it is now clear which growers are eligible for the simplified certification scheme. This marks the next concrete step towards 100% certification in accordance with FSI requirements in 2027. This is an ambition for which parties in the floriculture sector, including the Floriculture Accelerators, the FSI Accelerator Group, the VGB trade association and Royal FloraHolland, have joined forces. With the announcement of the turnover definition for small-scale growers, this group can also prepare for certification in their businesses.

The definition adopted by the FSI Board focuses on small-scale growers with a total annual turnover from floriculture products of less than €250,000 who operate in “the Global North” (mainly Europe and Israel). Now that the definition has been announced, the project group will start working on the certification scheme. This will be done in collaboration with MPS and GLOBALG.A.P. and in consultation with growers and buyers. The aim is to develop 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 that small-scale growers will be able to start certification via 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 circumstances and existing solutions.


Simple and affordable
"As previously communicated, the offering, trading and settlement of flowers and plants via the Royal FloraHolland platform will be 100% certified by 2027. Step by step, in accordance with the FSI requirements,‘ says Steven van Schilfgaarde, CEO of Royal FloraHolland. ’To achieve this, the definition and timeline for certification are crucial for all growers. The definition is now clear for this group of small-scale growers, and I am pleased with this clarity. The next step is the further development of the simplified and cheaper scheme. FSI will realise this this summer, in consultation with MPS and GLOBALG.A.P. and in consultation with small-scale members and suppliers. This approach ensures that the daily practice of this group of growers and their needs are taken into account. With the new scheme for small-scale growers, we are ensuring that everyone can continue to participate. It is precisely this group that provides a broad and varied range of products on the global floriculture market. This is crucial for the sector, the supply chain and the attractiveness of the Royal FloraHolland platform.


Clarity and direction
Small-scale members within the member pack Auction focus who meet this definition must comply with this scheme within two years of its availability, but not before 1 January 2027. Small-scale members within the member packs Auction Flex, Direct Flex and Direct Focus, as well as suppliers who fall within the defined criteria, can also make use of this option. However, they are expected to demonstrate compliance with the certification requirements by 1 January 2026 at the latest.

This definition and approach will help the sector move forward on the collective path that growers and traders 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 clock sales. 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 work towards 100% certification in 2027.

Also read FSI's press release on the definition for a small-scale grower here.

More information

For more information, contact the Sustainability department of Royal FloraHolland.

See also previous coverage on sustainability certification: floriculture joins hands toward 100% sustainability certification.

More information about FSI.