"From March/April, we've begun getting a lot of requests for the new top fruit harvesting season," says Emma Hamers van Flexotels. This Dutch company initially specialized in temporary accommodation, mainly for the event sector. However, when that sector shut down entirely in 2020 and 2021, the fruit and vegetable sector proved it sorely needed temporary housing for migrant workers. "This year, from April to August, our events' work is back in full swing. But in the winter, the fruit and vegetable sector is increasingly important to us."
So, planning for the new top fruit-picking season is back in full force. "The exact dates are still somewhat unclear, but, for us, it's more important to know how many rooms are involved. Once the harvesting season is known, our planning department will make build-up deals," Emma explains.
Of Flexotels top fruit clients, 90% return annually. "A sector like the fruit and vegetable one appreciates the flexibility and speed with which we can place our units. We now have a name with top fruit growers, so we should sell out again for the next harvest.''
The company recently introduced its new Room 45 unit, one of the more luxurious accommodation options. "This large unit has five rooms, each with a bathroom, shower, toilet, and sink. Each room can house three people, but regarding space and the longer time seasonal laborers work, we recommend two people."
"In addition to Room 45, the Flexstudios are another valuable addition to the range. These are the same size as the Flexotels but have a bathroom and kitchenette. We see these are often used as public spaces and the Flexotels for overnight stays," Emma continues.
German market
Flexotels wants to expand further within the fruit-growing sector. "That's a close-knit sector, with plenty of word-of-mouth advertising. As long as we do what we promise and deliver quality, I think we can still grow strongly, even across the border. We're most active in the Netherlands and Belgium and see many satisfied, returning customers. We're happy with that because it's a nice industry in which to do business."
"However, we're increasingly looking to the German market. We now have a German colleague who's fully focused on growth in Germany. When it comes to events, we're already well on our way there. But, as other housing becomes increasingly difficult, there's still much to gain in that country's fruit and vegetable sector," Emma concludes.
For more information:
Emma Hamers
Flexotels
14 Zessprong
5684 NV, Best, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 499 216 060
Email: sales@flexotels.com
Website: www.flexotels.com/nl