GroenGek(l)eurd: an independent quality label for professional garden contractors

Cooperation between PCS and gardening trade associations yields achievable certificate

This fall, the quality label GroenGek(l)eurd for the professional garden contractor will be launched. GroenGek(l)eurd is the independent quality label that allows garden contractors to distinguish themselves in a transparent, professional and sustainable way towards clients, suppliers, the sector and society in general. 

Many agree that a quality label for the sector is necessary and useful. It highlights the professionalism and competence of entrepreneurs in the green sector. At the same time, garden contractors have an enormous impact on a very large area of private gardens in Flanders, in addition, of course, to business parks and many public domains. This is why over the past two years - in collaboration with the Experimental Center for Ornamental Horticulture (PCS) - we have worked hard to develop a sectoral quality label. In this way, end customers can be sure of receiving high-quality and professional work. 

GreenGek(l)eurd stands for:
- Transparency - both in the operation of the organization and in making correct arrangements through a professional quotation with durable materials;
- Proficiency - the company is skilled by training or experience, works safely with the right equipment and knows the laws;
- Customer service - the company provides outstanding customer service;
- Social enterprise - employees are treated and supervised correctly, and given the opportunity for further training;
- Attention to the environment - the company observes applicable waste and environmental regulations, works according to the principles of integrated crop protection, and is committed to maximizing soil quality and minimizing flooding.

What difference does this make to a landscaping contractor?

A quality certificate is not only a demonstration of professionalism and skill, it also helps keep business processes and quality at a high level. Certification encourages continuous evaluation and improvement, thus moving forward as an entrepreneur. 

In addition, GroenGek(l)eurd helps demonstrate to various governments that companies with the quality label are in compliance with legal rules and regulations. 

Finally, a quality label is an easy way to convince customers of far-reaching professionalism and expertise. After all, it is audited by an independent inspection body.

Cooperation between industry and research ensures achievable certificate

The assessment guidelines in this specification were created through collaboration between the research institute Experimental Center for Ornamental Horticulture (PCS) and the horticultural trade associations. As a result, it contains clear and transparent quality requirements that strive for increased professionalism among the sector. The Trial Center's Green Department has been researching and demonstrating sustainable techniques in landscaping for decades and has built a strong network in the industry.

Groengekeurd vzw manages the specifications that define the quality requirements of the GroenGek(l)eurd certificate. This vzw is a partnership between the Ornamental Horticulture Research Center (Green Department), and sector organizations Groen Groeien, AVBS and VBTL. 

Independent audit ensures transparency

Groengekeurd vzw supports garden contractors to improve their business processes, but the audits are carried out by an external, independent auditing organization. This ensures an objective and independent audit, making the GroenGek(l)eurd certificate a very strong proof of quality and professionalism.

The certificate is valid for three years, after which a new audit follows. During this period, however, interim audits, by means of spot checks, may take place. In this way, GroenGek(l)eurd guarantees that the garden contractor continues to meet all quality requirements of the specifications.

Interested? And now?

The GroenGek(l)eurd certificate can be obtained by any landscaping contractor who wishes to distinguish themselves in the industry. This includes sole proprietors as well as small or large companies. A certification audit can be requested from an independent auditing institution. This institution will send you a quote for an audit.