An export manager who never travels. It may sound strange, but with the corona pandemic in mind, that is - unfortunately - a normal situation. Philippe Gers started a year ago as an export manager at Van Looveren, so he knows the tricks of the trade. Fortunately, he was able to visit several customers by car in the summer, but countries such as Canada and Australia are definitely not within driving distance.
But Philippe hasn't given up. Like everyone in the horticultural sector, he does what he has to do. "We all are on the same boat."
High demand for glass
Business is currently mainly done via Teams. Surely not ideal, but business keeps its momentum, also because of the great demand for glass. “Yet, there is little supply, as a major player in the market has disappeared,” says Philippe. “There are alternatives, like China for example, but with the container costs and the blockade of the Suez Canal, that is not easy. This year we are already fully booked up to week 50, where we normally have glass in stock.”
Especially diffuse glass is in short supply throughout the market. “We are looking at alternative glass with a high light transmission, such as low-iron, but that too is running out. As a consequence, new construction projects are sometimes even postponed. You can't get at the bottom of it,” that is how Philippe currently describes the market.
Investments
Even though he sometimes has to disappoint people because the supply is not enough, Philippe has nothing to complain about. "There is no hesitation in investing. We are seeing more and more growers cultivating under glass." Even crops such as cherries, apples, pears and peaches are now grown under glass.
China
As mentioned, China has become an important alternative source of glass given the current shortages. Considering the scale of production in such a country, you have to know your way around to find exactly the quality you are looking for. “We are not only talking about the quality of the glass itself but also packing and finishing the glass. We pay the utmost attention to this. We got in contact with many factories so that they can deliver the quality that meets our requirements.”
Maintaining quality is a continuous process, and every delivery is checked. "It does take time and energy, but we stand for quality."
Race for the light
Philippe also sees plenty of opportunities for the coming period. Countries such as France, Switzerland and Germany are well-positioned on the market. In various countries he describes a “race for the light”, partly due to the influence of the Dutch greenhouse builders. Tomato growers and flower growers in particular are real “light seekers." “And if their neighbor has it, they want it too,” Philippe says laughing.
Fortunately, there is also light at the end of the corona tunnel. The travel ban has been lifted in Belgium. Yet, now it is important that the entry bans in other countries also get lifted. “I can't wait,” Philippe concludes.
For more information:
Philippe Gers
Van Looveren NV 
+32 497 163 609
www.vanlooveren.be
philippe.gers@vanlooveren.be