African Roses
Of all the flowers on earth, the rose is the most sold species worldwide. Of course, not surprising when you consider that red roses have been used for centuries to profess love to each other. Because roses also symbolize courage, joy or sorrow in specific situations, they can be used all year round. Because of this, the flower is grown in many different places around the world. This includes Ethiopia, where the climate is extremely suitable for growing top quality roses. In this country, Rosa Plaza, as a Flourishing Partner of Van der Plas, cultivates various rose varieties, with craftsmanship, quality and reliability as its guiding principles.
Dutch Origins
Although Rosa Plaza's assortment of quality roses is currently grown under the African sun, this was not always the case. The origins of the Dutch cultivation company lie in Rijsenhout, North Holland. It was here where father Wim, together with his brother, started a rose nursery growing mainly small-flowered roses. Some 25 years later, the company expands and a change in the range of roses takes place: the focus shifts to medium-sized roses such as Passion and Splendid Renate.
Move to Ethiopia
During their study trip to Ethiopia, the sons of owner Wim Ammerlaan learn about the possibilities of renting land, which after a number of years can become the tenant's property. Since it proves difficult to continue growing roses profitably in the Netherlands, the Ammerlaan family takes up the adventure and starts a rose nursery in Ethiopia. The favorable climate for growing roses and the altitude at which the nursery is located allows the family business to grow high quality roses.
Quality and reliability
"The focus on quality is one of our core values," says Donald Hermes, commercial manager at Rosa Plaza. "Through craftsmanship, we have been growing various high-quality roses for years that meet various requirements in terms of bud size, shape and colors of the flowers. Since we also do the processing of the flowers in the Netherlands ourselves, the communication lines are short and the concerns are the same. That is, doing everything necessary to produce the best possible rose. In this way we can ensure that Van der Plas and florists can be confident that our roses are of the highest quality."
Human Sustainablity
“"In addition, we work as sustainably as possible and also take responsibility on a human level," Donald continues. "We use as few chemical pesticides as possible and choose natural crop protection wherever possible. These include natural enemies of the harmful insects or fungi that can endanger cultivation. Furthermore, we offer subsidized meals to our employees and the salaries increase with annual inflation."
Renewed identity
In order to also share the company's values with the outside world more, Rosa Plaza recently revamped its logo and accompanying slogan. The slogan African Flowers with a Dutch Touch refers to the growing location in combination with the focus on quality, reliability, sustainability and innovation. The innovative side is reflected in the grower's aim to introduce one or two new rose varieties every year.
Test track
Donald says the introduction of new varieties is a careful process. "We want florists to be able to continue to surprise their customers with new roses, but they should be of the best quality," Donald says. "Therefore, we first test the new varieties internally by growing them for a year. Once we can achieve high quality flowers under all weather conditions, only then do we start marketing the rose. We often choose an intense and striking color that gives the rose a distinct character. And the location of our nurseries also allows us to grow roses with a larger bud size for a beautiful shape of flower."
A colorful gift
'Rosa Plaza roses are a smart suggestion when you want to help your customers surprise someone with a radiant rose bouquet. Consider, for example, the classic white-yellow Snowstrom and dark red Monte Carlo. For those who want to give a more striking bunch, the two-tone Mai Tai (red with orange), Classy Alison and Samantha's Bridal (both pink with yellow) are a suitable choice. But the salmon pink Hermosa and hypnotic Ramonda also do very well as gifts. Offer your customers the most beautiful roses for any occasion with Rosa Plaza's extensive assortment!
Take a look at Rosa Plaza's roses