In the Netherlands, APM Berlikum strawberry nursery changed owners on August 2nd. Grower Aart Cornelissen sold his company to tomato grower Cock van Overbeek, along with his daughter Marlies and son-in-law René van Wingerden.
The business has 1.8 hectares of strawberries under glass. It also has 1.5 hectares of these in tunnels. And another 1.5 hectares of racks. It will continue under the name 'Fryske Strawberries'.
The nursery, including a residential home, went on sale last year. "It remains a difficult decision. But, it's been on the cards for some time," says Aart, who is over 60.
Water purifying system
He is now going to 'enjoy other things'. He will focus on marketing a drain water purifying system which he co-developed. The strawberry farm already uses this system.
Five years ago, Aart happened to come into contact with manufacturer, Water Waves. This resulted in the Hortibatch. This system is unique in that it combines three technologies.
These are UV-C radiation, hydrogen peroxide dosing, and ultrasound. Aart explained this earlier this year. That was after the Hortibatch was approved. It has also been added to the growers' choice list.
Photos: Facebook Fryske Strawberries
For more information:
Fryske Strawberries
Website: www.fryskestrawberries.nl