Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals earns Fairtrade certification for its poinsettias

MAASDIJK, Netherlands: Dutch-based young plant producer Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals achieves the Fairtrade certificate for its range of poinsettia cuttings and plug plants in recognition of the company’s commitment to fair labour practices, equitable compensation and environmental sustainability.

Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals harvest poinsettias as cuttings in Ethiopia and root them in their greenhouses in the Netherlands. Marc Driessen, Director Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals says, “Poinsettia is a major breeding and production crop for our company and the supply chain is of great importance to us. For every Fairtrade Poinsettia sold, we have committed that the entire surcharge that is added to the price of young plants will be transferred to the Fairtrade bonus scheme for our employees at the farm in Ethiopia. This means a significant difference to their wages.”

Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals maintains high level of standards for a wide range of certifications that covers the likes of social and ethical topics but also hygiene and sustainability matters. By being Fairtrade certified, the outlook on life of the employees at the farm improves even more and they have more control of their own future. The Poinsettia crop they produce and its quality are important for their sustainable livelihoods.

Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals is a specialist breeder and young plant producer of rooted and unrooted Poinsettias, which are also known as the Beekenkamp Superstars, can be sold throughout the supply chain under the Fairtrade brand. This also applies to the Princettia® range. A high level of transparency is guaranteed, making it a fair product for the retailer and consumer. It is still possible for certificated Fairtrade growers to have a look at options to change to the Beekenkamp Superstars Poinsettia young plant material with the Fairtrade mark for this season.

Beekenkamp Plant Ornamentals in obtaining the Fairtrade certificate for their Poinsettias, fits in perfectly with the key values of the company. Fairtrade is about decent working conditions, local sustainability and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. Beekenkamp Plants Ornamentals is committed to its employees, their rights worldwide, their partners throughout the supply chain and its environment.