In 2010 Hoza started a 3-year modification project for FloraHolland. Our experienced project team is in charge of modifying all the different aluminium flower trolleys to just 1 kind of trolley, which can be used by both flower auctions.

When two companies merge the big question raises: how can we join the logistic process? FloraHolland was facing this challenge. Hoza was thinking along and came up with the solution that saved the Flower Auction something substantial: both in time and in money.

FloraHolland stems from a merger between the flower auction VBA in Aalsmeer (Netherlands) and FloraHolland in Naaldwijk (Netherlands), with establishments in Bleiswijk, Venlo, Eelde and Rijnsburg. One of the main reasons for this merger was the logistical optimisation. Not only for the organisation itself, but also for the growers and wholesalers.

The logistic equipment in Aalsmeer are not compatible with the chain conveyor, transporters and automatic sensors in Naaldwijk. Because of this reason FloraHolland assumed that replacement of the current float existing of 260,000 flower trolleys was necessary. Although Hoza would appreciate a purchase order of this huge number of new trolleys, we still offered an alternative solution. Reason for this is that replacement would mean a temporary introduction of a third type of trolley, next to the already existing two types. Which makes logistics only more complicated.

The main feature of our solution was making use of FloraHollands strength. The fact point is that the existing logistic products are very well-maintained. Therefore we proposed to modify the trolleys so they can be used in both locations. This modification will take half the time of the production of a new trolley, it will make a huge difference in costs and the introduction of the modified trolley won’t cause any problems in the logistical chain.

Futhermore, modification is much more durable: old trolleys won’t be taken out of the logistic process and removed materials will be separated and recycled. Compared to a newly made trolleys, modified ones will realize a saving of 4,000 tonnes of aluminium (that is 200 fully loaded trucks). Which is a good thing for the environment and additionally it saves money.

Hoza is generally working on FloraHollands location, so that the trolleys can be admitted to the logistical processes. Our activities are adjusted to the rush of the flower auction (e.g. Mother’s Day and St. Valentine’s Day), in order to guarantee the availability of a sufficient number of trolleys.