“We are mainly feeling the pandemic through the difficulty of visiting expos and trials around the world. These events are not only to present products and improve sales, an important aspect for us is also the opportunity to meet our clients, which is something we are truly missing,” explains Eitam Argaman, Deputy Marking Manager of Israeli propagator Hishtil. Because of the worldwide lack of expos and trials, Hishtil decided to host their own digital version. Arganam explains that the new products shown at their digital trials are influenced by data that shows changing client habits. 
“Our clients want ‘useful’ plants”
Argaman explains that the new products introduced at Hishtag are inspired by the shifting demand of their customers. “Our data shows us that clients’ habits are changing. People are searching for better, fresher, and cleaner food. Moreover, they want to know what is used on their food, so instead of buying herbs or vegetables the trend of growing your own is increasing. As a result, we can see more clients shifting towards ‘useful’ plants, such as herbs and vegetables, especially when they are organic.” Hishtil is also closely keeping track of the impact that logistical issues have on the demand from their clients. “During COVID-19 it was a very big challenge to transfer our products to our clients overseas. Yet we took extra efforts to face these challenges, and we noticed that the number of cancellations, delays or complaints were the same as normal. It is really nice to know that our efforts were fruitful and our clients were impacted as little as possible.”
Organic herbs and vegetables
For this year’s HishTag, they are focusing on some of their most recent activities, especially their organic assortment. Argaman explains: “We are always making efforts to expand our organic assortment, which mainly consists of herbs. This year, we even added the Organic Lavandula angustifolia BeeZee 'Dark Blue', which will join three former organic lavenders in our assortment (Lavandula stoechas 'Kew Red', Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead Hishtil's Strain', and Lavandula angustifolia 'Forever Blue'). In addition, we have a new and unique organic grafted vegetable assortment, especially made for the hobby gardeners. We also have a new series of Treasure Island Sweet Potatoes, which were bred by the Louisiana State University Institute. They are ornamental varieties, with edible leaves and lots of nutritional benefits. We are also highlighting other new varieties, as we have new and exciting products available every year.” Click here to see their new products at their virtual booth.
Organic grafted vegetable plants
A digital substitution
“It is the second time we are doing this online activity to bring our novelties and specialties to our clients, without leaving the office. After last year's FlowerTrials were first cancelled, we made a virtual expo to replace IPM Essen. This year, we are publishing our digital trials again, as we have been receiving very positive feedback from clients and users. HishTag will remain online at least until next year’s FlowerTrials and people can find it on our Youtube Channel."
For more information:
Hishtil
Eitam Argaman
[email protected]
www.hishtil.com
Hishtil on new products presented at their digital trials