Royal Floraholland Visitor Centre

Gone ! - Gone !!- Gooooone !!!- 20 Million Flowers a day! I visited the Aalsmeer flower auction at about 8am on Wednesday 8th May 2019. The tickets cost €8 for adults, €5 for children 6-11 and free to smaller children. Tickets are available at the Visitor centre. The auction starts at 7am from Monday to Friday and continues until 11am except on Thursdays when it closes at 0900. After purchasing my ticket, I walked up the short staircase to the visitor's bridge at the auction complex. The sheer size, the enormity of the open floor took me by surprise. I later learnt that the floor space at this FloraHolland warehouse is 1,300,000 square meters. The visitor's bridge is about 4 to 5 metres above the floor of the warehouse and at least 200 metres long. Like the other visitors, I too walked along the bridge towards the auction rooms, observing the movement below of large numbers of mini electric powered transport trains loaded with containers of flowers and plants moving on a network of crisscross railway system. From the height of the walkway, I could not help admiring the design of that accurate, precise and predetermined movement of those flower-full containers as in a mini train system. The visitors cannot get any closer to the actual flowers than when standing on this elevated walkway above the busy floor. The emphasis here is on the flowers, not on the tourists. They come here to see the massive floral auction, where millions of flowers are traded daily in a very efficient manner. The auction rooms, where the flowers are traded are at the far end of the bridge. Visitors cannot enter the auction rooms reserved for traders and buyers. It is similar to a large lecture room for 300-400 students with their computers on the desk. The two electronic circular auction clocks replace the teacher's board. The information needed by the bidders, the price, number of flowers per container, minimum number of containers that can be purchased as well as quality and seller info etc. appear on this clock. The bidding starts at a high price as seen from the position of the ball on the circular clock. As the price drops, the ball on the clock drops too stopping when the lot has been purchased. Every offer takes only a few seconds before completion. I understand that 30 million flowers with a turnover of 8.8 million Euros are traded here in one single day. Once sold, the containers are directed to the buyer, who would remove them for redistribution or export. It was a fantastic experience watching this flower auction in action! Note - This is only an auction. To see flowers at close hand and enjoy their beauty we visited "Keukenohoff" gardens.

My experience with Royal FloraHolland has been nothing short of impressive. As a hub for the floral industry, it stands out for its efficiency and dedication to quality. Navigating the vast flower auction was made seamless by the organized layout and clear signage. The sheer variety of flowers and plants available was astonishing, showcasing the global reach of this marketplace. From classic blooms to exotic varieties, Royal FloraHolland truly offers a diverse selection for buyers and sellers alike. The auction process itself was fascinating to witness. The transparency and professionalism demonstrated during the bidding process instilled confidence. The technology employed for auctions appeared advanced, contributing to a smooth and timely transaction experience. The staff at Royal FloraHolland were knowledgeable and approachable, willing to assist with any inquiries. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or a newcomer, the support and guidance provided were invaluable. What sets Royal FloraHolland apart is its commitment to sustainability. The emphasis on environmentally friendly practices and responsible sourcing aligns with the growing awareness of eco-conscious consumers. It's reassuring to see a key player in the floral industry taking steps towards a more sustainable future. Logistics played a crucial role in the overall efficiency of Royal FloraHolland. The distribution and transportation facilities were well-organized, ensuring that the delicate nature of flowers was handled with care. This meticulous approach contributed to the freshness and quality of the products. While the scale of Royal FloraHolland can be overwhelming, the well-designed facilities, coupled with a user-friendly interface, make the experience accessible and enjoyable. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or simply an observer, Royal FloraHolland offers a captivating insight into the vibrant world of the global flower trade. In summary, my visit to Royal FloraHolland left a lasting impression. The professionalism, variety of offerings, commitment to sustainability, and seamless logistics make it a beacon in the floral industry. Whether you're a flower enthusiast or a business professional, this marketplace is a testament to the beauty and business of flowers on a grand scale.