In 2006, the Ammerlaans started out with 18 hectares of roses in Ziway, Ethiopia. By now, AQ Roses exploits 50 hectares and sells 100 million roses annually under the Rosa Plaza brand name. According to Frank Ammerlaan, “a lot has changed in Ethiopia, particularly since 2016, but we would do it all again.”
So, how are the rose growers faring in Ethiopia? To answer that question, it would be best to visit nurseries there. The media are certainly welcome. “If you prepare well, travel should be no problem, in principle. The situation in Ethiopia today is perhaps comparable to that in Kenya 15-20 years ago,” explains Frank Ammerlaan of Rosa Plaza. However, there are travel warnings for the area where they – and most nurseries – are located, recommending necessary and mid-day travel only. Therefore, we decided to meet with Ammerlaan in Aalsmeer, in the Royal FloraHolland buildings, where Rosa Plaza processes and sells its roses.