In the intricate world of floral logistics, where the delicate beauty of flowers meets the rigors of global transportation, adaptability is key. HortiNews spoke Margret van der Ploeg, Senior Technical Consultant, and Doorn, General Manager, both from Chrysal Africa International, about the evolving landscape of flower transport, particularly amidst the challenges posed by the current disruption of sea freight plans.
The shift from Air to Sea Freight has been touted as the preferred mode of transport in the flower industry, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for shipping delicate flowers to distant destinations. However, with the disruption of normal Sea Freight routes due to the Middle East crisis, it will take longer than earlier planned, for the much anticipated shift.
Despite the setback , one advantage that has emerged from the preparations is the concept of Long Storage. Initially conceived as a project by Chrysal since the inception of their Rose Dip service in 2019, Long Storage has emerged as a new innovation in recent months. Essentially, Long Storage involves storing flowers for extended periods before sending them out at a later date by air, in the absence of Sea Freight. Traditionally, the longest flowers have stayed at the farm before shipment has been about six days. While Long Storage may lack the cost-saving benefits and lower carbon emissions associated with sea freight, it presents several advantages for industry players.
One of the primary benefits of Long Storage is the ability to time the market according to supply and demand dynamics. By holding onto flowers and selling them at a later date when prices are higher, growers can maximize their profits. Additionally, Long Storage reduces the need for flushing and minimizes waste by allowing growers to sell flowers during periods of peak demand rather than disposing them off during periods of oversupply. Moreover, Long Storage offers operational advantages, such as the flexibility to process and sell flowers at different times, rather than being constrained by fixed shipping schedules associated with sea freight.
However, for Long Storage to be successful, certain requirements must be met, including maintaining high product quality, proper management, and having access to adequate cold storage facilities at the farm. As Van der Ploeg and Van Doorn emphasized, the transition to Long Storage has been embraced by many growers as a pragmatic response to the current challenges facing the industry. Chrysal, along with other industry stakeholders, is actively supporting growers in adopting Long Storage practices by providing technical expertise and logistical assistance. While Sea Freight remains the future of flower transport, the emergence of Long Storage as a viable alternative underscores the resilience and adaptability of the floral industry. By embracing innovative solutions and collaborating across the supply chain, growers and stakeholders are navigating these uncertain times and ensuring the continued availability of fresh blooms to consumers worldwide.
