“Availability of herbs will become difficult in coming month”

For years, Piet van Vugt was waiting for a new location for his herb production company as a consequence of dispossession to make room for the agro-logistical industrial estate Nieuw-Reijerwaard. One condition was always unconditional to him: the location once again had to be near the Handelscentrum. “Everything is picked up from our location. Each trader from Europe buys at the Handelscentrum, and many come to us for a few pallets of herbs, packed completely to their wishes.”

This year, the Council of State gave the green light for the new building at the discovered location that’s only one kilometre from the current address. Construction is now in full swing. It’s now planned that the move will take place in the late spring of 2019. “It’s about time, because we’re completely full now. We’re looking forward to moving into the new building, which meets all current regulations, and where we’ll have room to work efficiently regarding logistics, and where we’ll be able to set up our own greenhouse for the production of herbs and specialities. Our customers are also looking forward to the move. Fortunately everyone is very understanding, but sometimes our loading docks are quite crowded.”

Besides, all herbs – Van Vugt has 60 in their range, more than 20 of which are available year-round – have their own characteristics. Basil, for example, does well in warm weather. “The warmer, the better for basil,” the grower says. The fresh herbs have been gaining in popularity for years now. Basil and chives do best. Besides, fresh mint has become a large product in recent years, but the sales of edible flowers is also increasing. The range is completed with specialities such as hyssop, apple mint, pineapple sage and common ice plant. Van Vugt doesn’t carry organic herbs in their range. “Our customers hardly ask for it, and besides, availability is too limited. We can’t afford to say ‘no.’ Our customers need continuity.”