The tree nursery sector faces both challenges and opportunities. According to René Dekkers and Bernd Feenstra of Rabobank, the key lies in collaboration and forward thinking. ‘The nursery industry has traditionally been rooted locally and regionally, but it has also become an important international player,’ says Dekkers. ‘GrootGroenPlus is a great example of that – a global platform with local roots.’

Dekkers, Food & Agri account manager for South Netherlands, focuses on tree nurseries within his portfolio. Feenstra, national horticulture sector manager, adds: ‘Entrepreneurship and trade spirit have always been strong in this sector. But today’s challenges require collective organisation, both nationally and internationally. Rabobank supports this, working together with Fruitport, Treeport and Greenport, and in close cooperation with organisations such as (Z)LTO.’

Rabobank has been involved with GrootGroenPlus since its very first edition. ‘We’ve been a sponsor from the start, and we’re active as a financier, knowledge partner and driver of sustainable innovation,’ says Dekkers. ‘The nursery industry may be smaller than other agricultural sectors, but it’s economically significant, especially in key regions such as Zundert, Boskoop, Opheusden and Limburg.’

Feenstra sees a positive market outlook overall. ‘Demand for trees remains strong, both in the Netherlands and abroad. Urban greening and attention to quality of life are creating sustained demand. The challenges are not in the market itself, but in external conditions: permits, labour, water and regulations. Climate change and public discussions around plant protection and sustainability demand a proactive response.’

That response, Feenstra argues, starts with taking control. ‘Don’t wait for restrictions to be imposed – take the initiative with a sustainability agenda. There are many themes – from energy and water to labour and biodiversity – that can be addressed collectively. The greatest progress can be made by cooperating across regions and engaging openly with society. The tree nursery sector contributes enormously to climate and wellbeing; we must keep telling that story.’

Dekkers concludes: ‘The strength of this sector lies in its entrepreneurship. But to maintain that strength, we must also act collectively. Working together on knowledge, innovation and sustainability is the only way to ensure a future-proof nursery industry.’