NL: Looking for the most distinctive orchid professional

Phalaenopsis company Opti-flor has opened registration for the 'Golden Singolo Award 2016' on Monday, July 4th. This year the Golden Singolo Award will be presented for the third time, to an orchid professional who stands out most and is a role model for colleagues.

According to Marco Hendriks, co-founder of Opti-flor, entrepreneurs in flower retail are still struggling despite the cautious economic recovery. "There is a need for inspiration and examples of successful entrepreneurship. With the 'Golden Singolo Award we want to stimulate and help entrepreneurs who are on the right path. In addition, we are trying to provide the sector with some inspiration."

New this year is the possibility to send a photograph with a creation based on a phalaenopsis from Opti-flor. "We judge participants on business acumen and distinctiveness, among other things. This way we can also get a good idea of the creativity and craftsmanship of the participant," says Hendriks. Entries will be judged by a professional jury including 2014 Golden Singolo Award winner Jan Dippell Ritzinger of Ivy flower shop and Pim van den Akker, founder of Flower Factor and one of the world's most famous floral designers.

Florists, flower arrangers, floral specialists in garden centers and other orchid professionals can register for participation in the Golden Singolo Award until September 25th. More information and registration at: 

The announcement of the winner and the award ceremony will take place during the Cultra Event in Aalsmeer, The Netherlands, on Wednesday, November 2nd.