Netherlands: CombiVliet is building again
It's the fourth time for CombiVliet to build again at Agriport A7. The nursery is expanding by 12.2 hectares, which means the greenhouse acreage at the NoordVliet location is growing to 50 hectares. "A few years ago, we set our sights on efficiency, upscaling and shortening the chain. Horticulture has to keep reinventing itself, otherwise we'll take a step back as Dutch horticulture - and that can happen very quickly. It's noticeable in all industries. The consumption of healthy food continues to grow, and we're growing along with that," says operational director Edwin de la Combé.
Construction in the Netherlands has nearly halted in recent years. CombiVliet has also seen its share of delays. The 123 hectare plot of land was bought in 2010, and the goal was to build a phase every year. The target remains in place for the coming years. "So for the coming years, we have enough of a challenge. Now as well, despite last year's good season, funding remains a challenge. That hasn't become any easier than three years ago."
In week 36, the new plants should enter the greenhouse. The plants will be illuminated by HSE NXT2 1000W lamps from Hortilux Schreder. The greenhouse is nearly the same as the previous stages, and is again built by Havecon. "Some technical adjustments have been made, in order to meet the latest greenhouse construction standards," says Roy van Vliet (location manager). "It hasn't yet been decided whether there will be diffuse glass on the greenhouse. It seems to be becoming the standard for new tomato nurseries now."
It is not yet known what kind of tomatoes will be growing in the greenhouse. That depends on demand in the market, and the production planning is currently in the works. "At the moment, we have 44.4 ha of vine tomatoes growing, 10 ha cherry tomatoes, 7.6 ha snack tomatoes, 6 ha plum vine tomatoes and 12 ha cocktail vine tomatoes. We have nearly completed the planning for the full acreage."
And there's also good news for fans of construction photos. Just like with previous expansions, the CombiVliet team is planning to put the progress of the construction online again. We'll keep you posted!
