At the beginning of the 20th century, there was a great shakeout in the market. Many traditional companies said goodbye as market participants. Very often these companies went bankrupt, others downsized and continued to operate at a smaller level.
It was worth it to persevere! For the past 4 - 5 years, the demand for seed bags has been steadily increasing. In the time before Corona, the cause was a growing interest in nature and greenery among the younger generation. This positive development has received a significant push since March 2020.
No matter whether we look to Germany, Switzerland, France, the USA, or Australia. Everywhere the same picture in spring 2020 and 2021 – empty euro-hole hooks in the supply walls for seed bags. Never in the history of our industry has there been so much consumer demand.
In Q2 2021, for example, sales in Germany were 47 % higher for plants compared to 2019 and 12 % higher compared to 2020. We hear similar reports from all parts of the world. There are supply shortages for many seed varieties.
The innovations at variety level and assortments are significant. Most notably, we are hearing those sales of flower seeds are increasing. For decades, for example, we have been used to sales of assortments being split between 70 % vegetable seed and 30 % flower seed. Now this percentage is growing significantly in favour of flowers. There is a global interest among consumers to promote biodiversity. This is a great opportunity for seed trading companies around the globe.
How much the companies would have wished for such a situation at the turn of the millennium. With innovative ideas, commitment and market knowledge, the members of the Media-Concept-Group remain your partner and look forward to the next challenges posed by the market.