OVATA, Bleiswijk (2022)

In harmony with nature

Passion, sustainability and experience are very important at OVATA. Since 1987, Hans Ammerlaan’s family business in Bleiswijk has been growing over 30 million succulents originating from all over the world every year on 10 hectares. The entrepreneurs’ focus is on quality, the environment and good social working conditions. The vision for a future of sustainable entrepreneurship is clear: hence OVATA wants to be growing entirely organically next year, and use only peat-free substrate by 2025. The goal is to achieve the Skal certificate within 6 years.

The trade jury believes that OVATA is an ambitious, innovative and sustainable family business with a clear vision for sustainable development into the future. OVATA has an eye for innovation in terms of cultivation, and shows how niche products - of which 75% come from its own breeding programme - can do well through excellence in processes. Big steps have been made in recent years in terms of the sustainable ‘natural’ cultivation of succulents. The trade jury appreciates the social engagement, both internationally in Uganda with the ‘Because we care’ project and locally with work for people struggling to engage with the labour market.

OVATA has been nominated by MPS.