Dutch flower importer closes down after attack in Ethiopia

Photo: Depositphotos.com
Photo: Depositphotos.com

Aalsmeer-based flower importer Esmeralda Farms Nederland is being closed down following an attack by rebels in Ethiopia on the company’s flower nursery last week, broadcaster NOS said on Tuesday.

The company’s US parent has decided to close down the Dutch operation, with the loss of 14 jobs, because of the damage caused to the company in Ethiopia, a spokesman told the broadcaster. The Dutch arm is in charge of European distribution and up to 40% of its stock came from the African country.

Esmeralda Farms puts the damage caused by government opponents at €10m. A large part of the company’s crop was destroyed in the attacks, which also affected four other firms with links to the Netherlands.

According to the company’s website, the irrigation system, packaging halls and cold storage rooms were all destroyed in the fire.

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