The petition includes the following:
One large auction has more disadvantages than advantages:
- Sellers are opposed to one all-inclusive entity (which a merged auction would be).
- Distribution chains will seek alternative suppliers.
- These distributors will approach individual growers for supplies
- The gap between members and directors will widen.
- One large auction will not mean more market power; just look at the Netherlands!
Bert: "We find Veiling BelOrta to be a strong auction. There have been various mergers in the past, which have, in our opinion, not been completed successfully yet. Veiling BelOrta must still make a better name for itself on the vegetable market. We, as producers, are of the opinion that they should develop a bit first before they enter into another large merger." He emphasises that they are not opposed to a merger per se, but it is moving too fast. "At the moment, the corporate side of the business is still divided. We must all get on the same page before more people, with differing visions, are brought in. This will only mean further alienation from earlier cooperatives."
Early message sent
According to Bert, a merger may be possible in a few years time. "If trust among the farmers is built sufficiently again, then the time will be ripe to sit down for discussions." He thinks management is going to take them seriously. "They have not reacted yet, but we plan to make an appointment to discuss further details soon. We have sent a strong message now already, before discussions reach an advanced stage."
Filip Fontaine reactioin
"We are open to direct communication, yet a petition is a somewhat unusual way. We, however, welcome any form of communication with our producers, so we are definitely going to do something with this. The farmers have voiced their concerns about the proposed merger. We regard this as a clear message and are taking it seriously. It is, ultimately, their cooperative. I hope the growers become more concise with their concerns so we can do something effective with them. But the producers must not worry yet: there has only been one merger meeting."
