Dutch cues up for export expansion

Eight Dutch cucumber associations are to combine under the K8 banner to jointly strengthen their international market position.

The move reflects a similar earlier initiative by Dutch pepper and aubergine growers and brings together 90 per cent of Dutch cue production into one association.

The association will begin with the exchange of market knowledge and information, before a second phase that will co-ordinate quality management within the sector.

K8 growers cover 550 hectares in the Netherlands. Its board members represent the eight pre-existing associations. They are: Harm A Aerts (VDT), Thijs Gielen (Sun Quality), Ruud Grubben (Komosa), Jan Hogervorst (Tradition), Jack Keunen (ZON), Wout Limburg (The Greenery), Joop Luimes (BGB) and Leen Verhaar (WestVeg). Thijs Jasperse is independent chairman.