HilverdaFlorist actively contributes to the Weerbare Sierteeltsector (Resilient Floriculture Sector) initiative. Together with other parties in the supply chain, we are committed to a safe, reliable and future‑proof floriculture sector. By raising awareness and staying alert to risks together, we strengthen the resilience of the sector.
The floriculture sector is international, innovative and constantly evolving. It is precisely this strong international interconnectedness and fine‑meshed logistics that also make the sector vulnerable. Organised crime attempts to misuse the floriculture sector and the people working in it, for example for drug smuggling and labour exploitation.
The Weerbare Sierteeltsector (Resilient Floriculture Sector) initiative was established to address these risks collectively and to work towards a safe, reliable and future‑proof sector. Although HilverdaFlorist does not transport large logistical volumes like companies that are directly active at the auction, and therefore has a different risk profile, we clearly recognise the importance of this initiative. HilverdaFlorist is one of the companies actively participating in this programme.
The goal of the Weerbare Sierteeltsector is clear: to ensure the safest possible working environment within the floriculture sector. A sector where people feel safe at work, companies collaborate with confidence, and there remains room for entrepreneurship and growth. Prevention is central to this approach. By sharing knowledge, increasing awareness and recognising signals at an early stage, risks can be limited before they lead to harm.
The approach focuses on strengthening entrepreneurs and organisations within the floriculture sector. This is achieved, among other things, by:
• sharing up‑to‑date knowledge and insights
• providing training and information
• carrying out analyses to better identify risks
Anyone who knows what to look out for and how to act in unusual situations directly contributes to a safer working environment.
The Weerbare Sierteeltsector is a collaboration between various public and private parties. Within the Centre for a Resilient Floriculture Sector, these parties come together to exchange knowledge and information. Participants include municipalities (including the municipality of Aalsmeer), Customs, the Tax and Customs Administration, the Public Prosecution Service, RIEC, Royal FloraHolland, Greenport Aalsmeer and other supply‑chain partners.
Within HilverdaFlorist, concrete steps have been taken to increase awareness and willingness to report irregularities. An internal protocol has been developed for reporting concerns. Employees are informed through internal communication channels such as posters, information materials and the intranet. The topic has also been discussed during staff meetings, and employees receive training on how to deal with situations that raise questions or do not seem right.
The impact of the Weerbare Sierteeltsector initiative is visible across the entire sector. The number of reports has increased from approximately 80 per year to around 80 per month. This does not mean that there are more irregularities, but it does show that alertness and willingness to report within the sector have increased significantly. This clearly demonstrates the importance of awareness and prevention.
Building a resilient floriculture sector is something we do together. It requires openness, cooperation and commitment from everyone in the supply chain. HilverdaFlorist remains actively committed to this and is pleased to contribute to a safe, reliable and future‑proof sector. By staying alert together and taking responsibility, we make the sector stronger for today and for the future.
For more information: Weerbaresierteeltsector.nl
