Family business Paul Jong continues to build a flourishing future

Sven Jong, who has had a passion for flowers from a young age, brings extensive experience within the company. “I grew up among flowers. At the age of eight, I was already selling flowers from my cargo bike, accompanying my father Paul to the auction, and learning the fine tricks of the flower trade from him. Together with my brothers and sister, we are proud to take on this responsibility,” says Sven. His focus will be on daily operations, strategic growth, and maintaining close relationships with growers.

Sven in his early days preparing flowers for the auction

Ready-to-sell bouquets for supermarkets across Europe
The company, specialized in processing flowers into ready-to-sell bouquets for major retailers throughout Europe, has built a strong reputation over the years. Sven: “Our strength lies in the complete package. With our own fleet of trucks, long-term partnerships with more than 100 growers, and an in-house processing facility in Zwaagdijk-Oost, we handle the entire process from sourcing to export on behalf of retailers. We offer a wide range of seasonal flowers such as tulips, peonies, lilies, sunflowers, gladioli, and amaryllises, which we process into mono or mixed bouquets. We also supply roses and mixed bouquets year-round. With a team that operates flexibly and efficiently all year long, we make sure our flowers always reach the customer in ultra-fresh condition.”

Processing flowers at the in-house processing facility in Zwaagdijk-Oost

Wholesale distribution
In addition to retail, Paul Jong B.V. also supplies directly to wholesalers, including various florists and small retailers in Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. The company manages its own transport to these wholesale clients, ensuring speed and flexibility. “In the coming years we will also focus more on this part of the business, as we see that the demand for directly delivered, fresh flowers also continues to grow in these markets. This presents opportunities for further expansion and a stronger foothold within Europe,” says Emiel Jong.

Flowers ready for export

Dedicated housing for migrant workers
Migrant workers play a vital role in the company’s flower processing operations. Under the leadership of Nadieh Jong, the company has invested in its own housing facilities, including two accommodation centres that comfortably host seasonal staff. “By organizing our own housing, we can act quickly and provide a pleasant living environment,” Nadieh explains. “We see it as our responsibility to take good care of our migrant workers. It’s not only important for them, but also for the continuity and quality of our work processes.”

Building on a solid foundation
Sustainability is a key priority for Paul Jong. The company is already fully self-sufficient: it uses no gas and generates all of its energy with its own solar panels. In the coming years, the focus will be on making the company even more sustainable. Additionally, automation and even closer collaboration with growers will play a central role. Sven: “By coordinating assortment and cultivation together, we’re able to leverage growers’ knowledge and market insights to the fullest. They know exactly what’s happening in the market, and together we aim for market-driven pricing. This enables us to position ourselves more strongly and meet consumer expectations.”

Although Paul will no longer be involved in daily operations, he remains connected to the company. “It is great to see my children taking on the leadership together. Our company ethos, based on collaboration and trust, remains at the core and I’m confident the company will continue to thrive with my children in charge,” says Paul.

Sven Jong, Nadieh Jong, Niels Jong, Emiel Jong

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