What are the main challenges in front of the hydroponics industry nowadays?
Benoit Goessens: Product innovation is definitely a priority; as an industry we need to anticipate the needs of an ever more knowledgeable and sophisticated clientele, while of course continuing to expand our consumer base.
How you oversee its development in the next let’s say 5 to 10 years?
Benoit Goessens: A big part of my job is keeping my finger on the pulse, recognizing needs and trends as they emerge, and making sure that Hydrofarm continues to be at the forefront of market changes.
Existing markets will continue to evolve, while new and emerging markets will require specific attention.
Which markets represent main interest to your company?
Benoit Goessens: Hydrofarm is a leader for indoor gardening equipment and supplies in the U.S., and the U.S. is by volume the oldest, most mature hydroponics market, so maintaining that status is of course a priority to us as a company. Having said that, we are very aware of the importance of the global market, and continue to strive to establish ourselves abroad. We’re already addressing the European market through our Spain-based subsidiary Eltac, and by attending conferences like the recent Soilless Gardening event in India, we continue to cultivate our interests in other markets around the world.
How do you evaluate the growth potential of the “growing markets” such as India, Africa, and Russia?
Benoit Goessens: We’re always ready to get involved with developing markets by participating in events like the Soilless Gardening Conference — I think being able to physically visit a market and engage in discussions with involved parties is invaluable. We’re also quick to respond to the many inquiries we receive each week from companies and individuals interested in working with Hydrofarm. We learn so much from the dialogue that arises from these situations, and that, combined with our experience and a good bit of common sense is what informs us about new and developing markets.
Shall the European and US companies redirect their efforts towards the growing markets and what are the main challenges and barriers for the foreign product suppliers?
Benoit Goessens: I can only speak on behalf of Hydrofarm and our global distribution partners, but I think it would be short-sighted not to recognize the potential of these new markets, and to strive to address their needs. The challenges involve understanding and embracing cultural differences, traditions and language barriers. Logistics can be frustrating at times, and there are sometimes unforeseen costs associated with doing business in new territories. We definitely tailor our product selection for each growing market.
Seems that the micro-farming is blossoming nowadays, but what’s the situation with the big consumers such as greenhouses that are using the hydroponic systems and methods?
Benoit Goessens: Small growers are our focus in India right now, but our PARsource commercial lighting division has done business in the past there with large entities, and we’re continuing to evaluate that market. There was a lot of interest from commercial growers, and even though India has a lot of natural light, the consensus seems to be that supplemental lighting could be very useful during inclement weather.
How you see the role of the government in the sustainable growth of the hydroponics in India?
Benoit Goessens: I would love to see an organization set up whose purpose would be to lobby the government to help small farmers with micro-loans to help start or improve their soilless operations. They would also, ideally, work with schools and universities to provide educational programs throughout the country to teach those outside of population centers how to farm this way.
The food and water scarcity is a fact. Do you think that the soilless growing can solve this huge global issue?
Benoit Goessens: I don’t know that “solve” is the word I would use, but I believe passionately that the more we embrace this technology, the more mouths we will feed. The sooner the better!