The results show an improvement on the previous year and net profits after tax reached euro7.6million compared to euro4.1m in 2001.

Operating profit was also up on 2001 by euro14m to euro43m and gross margins were in line with a year previously as was annual turnover at euro1.52bn..

The Greenery has attributed the improved performance to cost savings. Acquisitions during the year included Minnaar and Jover while Van Geest International, Verdi and much of the ornamentals activity of Disva were all sold off.

Another highlight from the year was the link up with Humber VHB last October in a joint marketing agreement for salads in the UK which is expected to bear fruit this season.

The Greenery has declined to speculate on profit expectations for 2003 as the Dutch season kicks off at a time of global political and economic uncertainty. The board of directors did state, however, that it believes the year will bring 'good opportunities to expand vigorously on the strategy adopted in previous years.' Strategically the Greenery's infrastructure and grower projects – GreenHouse and Greenery relationship management – are ongoing in order to enhance facilities and 'deliver maximum effort in the area of product pricing and marketing.'

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