3 questions to... Florent Moreau
Florent Moreau, an artisan florist, has taken over at the helm of Valhor, the French horticultural interprofessional organisation. With three key priorities – raising the profile of his professions, competitiveness and ecological transition - he intends to dynamize the sector and rise to the challenges of climate change
How did your election as Chairman of Valhor go?
It was a consensual and peaceful process. The presidential election at Valhor is based on a rotating system between three colleges in the industry: production, landscaping and retail. After Catherine Muller, who represented the landscaping sector, it was the turn of the retail sector, where I come from. This unanimity illustrates the harmony that exists between the different players. Now it’s time to take action!
I have a clear view of our past results. On the retail side, business remains stable, but growth prospects are limited. Our organisation must work to stimulate the public’s appetite for plants. On the production side, although quality is irreproachable, the number of growers is steadily declining. This is a phenomenon seen in the wider farming world. Finally, in the landscaping sector, public and private projects to do with urban planning offer interesting opportunities, even if these are sometimes held back by economic and political uncertainties.
What are your priorities for your three-year term?
My term of office is part of a strategic plan designed to run up to 2030. It is based on three main themes, starting with the attractiveness of our professions. This is a key issue. We need to enhance the image of the plant professions to attract the younger generations, by emphasising the career opportunities they offer. I also believe that if companies are to remain competitive, they need to take concerted action to meet the challenge of international competition. Finally, the green shift requires continuous adaptation of practices, whether in the choice of plant species or in the sustainable management of resources.
In addition to this, I have a personal ambition: to make the inter-profession more accessible and visible to professionals. Many people are still unaware of the extent of Valhor's activities.
What are your priorities for your three-year term?
My term of office is part of a strategic plan designed to run up to 2030. It is based on three main themes, starting with the attractiveness of our professions.
This is a key issue. We need to enhance the image of the plant professions to attract the younger generations, by emphasising the career opportunities they offer. I also believe that if companies are to remain competitive, they need to take concerted action to meet the challenge of international competition. Finally, the green shift requires continuous adaptation of practices, whether in the choice of plant species or in the sustainable management of resources.
In addition to this, I have a personal ambition: to make the inter-profession more accessible and visible to professionals. Many people are still unaware of the extent of Valhor's activities