KIND WORDS

I am very grateful that over the years I have worked with many people. With entrepreneurs, investors, colleagues, employees, suppliers, and experts in the field of the horticulture business. With one collective goal and that was to grow their business to another level.

“I know Bert van Geffen since we met in 2001 when I was installing a Priva climate computer. From this time we stayed in contact and have seen each other in different glasshouses Bert has managed. The way I know Bert is as a hard working, honest, and very likable individual that has a good understanding of all growing aspects. He is highly educated and experienced not only in all growing aspects in the greenhouse but also with the Priva computer, electrical control part of grading machines, box making machines, electrical trolleys, bikes and all material used in a glasshouse operation and is one of not many growers who is using the computer properly. We are always happy to help each other out in this horticulture business in New Zealand where it is difficult to find the right information as dealers and as growers. We like to discuss the latest greenhouse innovation such as the semi closed glasshouse and its potential benefits. Bert is always very interested in these new technologies as they challenge him to excel. I know Bert as someone that is happy to help out other people “. Richard Hectors, RTF Climate Ltd, New Zealand

“He was able to turn the site into a world-class production facility. His growing skills are second to none and his labour management along with his growing ability is of the highest quality. Bert has never made rash decisions I would describe Bert as a very thoughtful grower who thinks through problems to find solutions. His ability to look at things from all angles and find the correct solutions stands testament to the way in which he was able to turn a very difficult site into a very successful operation. I believe Bert to be a grower of the highest quality. Bert has a quietly mannered personality with a good sense of humour. Bert has been a pleasure to work with”. Stefan Vogrincic, Director & Advisor Josefs Produce Ltd & GROWER2GROWER, New Zealand

“As Business Support from GRODAN I met Bert van Geffen several times over the last few years when he was the Head grower of Great Lakes Tomatoes in New Zealand. He knows really well how to grow tomatoes and crop was looking in balance all the times I visited him. Looking at the yield levels he was reaching I think he was one of the top growers in New Zealand. We always had nice conversations about growing in general and strategies related to root zone management. Bert is always eager to learn and a good guy the work with and for in my opinion.” Sonny Moerenhout, Crop Consultant CEEEX, GRODAN, The Netherlands

“I have found that Bert is always very focussed on his work and gives it 100% to his employers and will always treat the business like it was his own. Unfortunately, this has sometimes cost me some money as he will always look for a good deal and different options. Bert is well known for being a terrific grower who seems to get results, even in the most trying conditions. He has grown most things from flowers to vegetables and Bert can change his hand to grow any crop as he has “green fingers”. Hence he is well regarded in the Horticultural community. I feel that Bert will be a great asset to any grower who is looking for a top man”. Wally van der Westerlo, Regional Manager (Auckland South), Group Procurement Manager, HortiCentre, New Zealand

“In the time I worked for Bert I found him to be a very empathetic and understanding boss who made me and all the rest of the employees feel not just as workers but as friends. Bert made GLT into 1 big family and that sense of family made for a very enjoyable and fun work environment. If I had the opportunity I wouldn’t hesitate to work for Bert again. In my opinion, I can think of no better manager/boss/person than Bert van Geffen.” Sam Farquharson, Reporoa, New Zealand

“Bert is an outstanding person who on a daily basis goes “above and beyond: in this job and in his support for the distance growing. He continuously exceeds the performance standards for his position as a traditional grower. He remains steadfast in his cheerfulness, calmness, and dependability. He is an extraordinary partner and a vital person for a healthy and rich crop. Bert has demonstrated excellent decisions and recommendations for the crop. He is attentive to all the works tirelessly to achieve the goals of having the best crop. He is extremely positive and performs his tasks in an extremely timely and conscientious manner. From my point of view, he represents an innovative farmer when he is facing challenges. these challenges have become growing from a distance, a new method of monitoring and developing a healthy crop. He is punctual in every job he does and typically exceeds expectations. Bert is an invaluable asset to any farm that wants to have a professional grower and I highly recommend hiring him for being part of your team”. Alina Nedelus Bio Culture, Romania