"Challenging times like COVID-19, transport ships getting stuck in the Suez Canal, vessels being attacked, wars, trade blockades, and so on—these events can have huge consequences for internationally operating companies," says Floris Berghout, CEO of Viemose. "Preparing for such circumstances can be very challenging for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), like Viemose."
Last week, Viemose DGS participated in the annual "Ambassadors Conference 2024 Denmark." The event was held at the beautiful Carlsberg Museum & Business Center. Viemose was invited to take part in a panel discussion on the impact of geopolitical changes on the value chain. The company was asked to represent Danish SMEs engaged in international trade.
"Horticulture, and especially the technology suppliers within the industry, are thriving because international trade is possible," Floris emphasized. "But due to developments outside of your control, your business can be affected, underlining the importance of this event and panel discussion."
As an example, he shared how Viemose was in the process of producing a high-tech moving gutter system for the production of fresh leafy greens. "This project required electrical components like frequency controllers. At that time, there were significant lead times for these components. Our supplier warned us of uncertainties regarding both the lead time and the price: the lead time could be a year or even longer, and the price might be as quoted, but it could also increase."
Since neither Viemose nor their client could wait that long for the parts, they decided to purchase a second-hand machine. "We salvaged the necessary electronic components and used them to equip our project as a temporary solution. This allowed our client to meet his deadline and start producing fresh leafy greens to supply his own customers on time."
Discussing challenges and solutions like these proves invaluable for the industry. "Overall, it was a very interesting and successful event, we are honored to be part of this and glad we could share our view and address all the Danish ambassadors and high-level executives during this day. "
After the panel discussion, attendees enjoyed a refreshing drink and engaged in informal discussions.
For more information:
Floris Berghout
Viemose
Phone: +31(0)6-54653130
Email: [email protected]
www.viemose.nu