From October 2 to 4, 2024, the 34th edition of the GrootGroenPlus trade fair took place, achieving outstanding results and once again showcasing exciting developments. The fair featured three routes, 1.4 kilometers of walking paths, and 280 participants, with an increase in the total fair area. Despite the larger space, the waiting list was longer than ever, as this year it was not possible to expand further. Group participations from various regions and collaborations based on shared innovations contributed to an even more diverse pool of participants. The outdoor exhibition area continued to grow steadily.
This year, the fair saw participation from as many as seven different countries, with 32% of participants consisting of suppliers, including advice on cultivation, substrates, pots, and technology. The education area also made a return. The remaining 68% of participants were made up of green industry operators, offering a well-balanced and comprehensive range of products, from potted plants to standard trees, fruit trees, perennials, shrubs, hedge materials, aquatic plants, and much more. Initial results have already been calculated, and further details will be specified in the coming weeks.
This year, 32% of visitors came from abroad, representing 34 different countries, including Switzerland, Austria, France, Bulgaria, Romania, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, England, Ireland, and Spain. There was a notable increase in visitors from Germany, Poland, and Scandinavian countries. The rise in visitors from Germany and Poland was a direct result of the increased number of participants from those countries.
The total number of visitors increased by 3.6%. However, the distribution of visitors over the various days was different from previous years: 44% attended on Wednesday, 35% on Thursday, and 21% on Friday. Wednesday was so busy that, for the first time in 10 years, reserve parking lots were used. Friday provided participants with the opportunity to visit their colleagues’ stands, leading to additional orders for suppliers.
Social media played a crucial role before and during the event. The effective use of online platforms attracted many new visitors and participants, and social media interactions surged during the fair.
The digital fair continues through November via Varb, where participants showcase their current assortments through the fair’s app and website. Participant profiles will remain available, and additional images and videos will be shared via the website and social media platforms. This allows visitors to continue experiencing the atmosphere of the fair even after it has concluded.
The 2025 edition will be held from October 1 to 3.
