FAQ

1. What is the difference between hallmark flower bulbs and non-hallmark flower bulbs?
   
   Flower bulbs which are so-called ‘Hallmark flower bulbs’ are sold with a quality guarantee. If the flower bulbs do not meet the expectations it is possible (provided the packaging is sent along) to have the supplier send a replacement package.
   
2. What is the added value of hallmark flower bulbs to the consumer?
   
   A flower bulb is a living product. Despite tight control and extreme care given to the product it may happen that the flower bulb does not meet the consumer’s expectations, for example should insufficient plants come up or flower. The quality guarantee makes it possible for the consumer to inform the foundation of this by means of the complaint procedure. Consequently, the foundation will see to it that the complaint is dealt with correctly.
   
   
3. What is the added value of selling hallmark flower bulbs for a purchaser?
   
   You do not have to do anything in the area of dealing with complaints. Should a consumer not be satisfied with the product, he can make this known by sending a description of the complaint, of the retail outlet and the packaging to the foundation’s claims address. The foundation sees to it that the complaints are dealt with correctly. The operations are supervised by independent inspectors.
   
   
4. How does the procedure of settling complaints work?
   
   The consumer can inform the foundation that the hallmark flower bulbs do not meet expectations the moment he comes to that conclusion. It is important that a clear description of the complaint be given AND that the packaging is sent along. The consumer will be sent a confirmation that the complaint is being dealt with and that the supplier will respond/make a proposal within a month with regard to settling the complaint.
   
   
5. What are the activities of the Holland Flower Bulb Hallmark Foundation?
   
   The foundation’s activities are holding inspections and checks performed at the member companies. These inspections range from inspecting in the field to entrance and exit checks at the associated exporters.
   The foundation sees to it that the regulations are complied with.
   The Foundation keeps track of any consumer complaints and sees to it that they are settled correctly.
   The foundation takes disciplinary measures against members who do not completely comply with the regulations.
   
   
6. How can hallmark flower bulbs be recognised?
   
   You can recognise a hallmark bulb by this logo:
   
                                  
   
   In some cases flower bulbs are sold at a retail outlet as ‘private label’. This retail outlet will print its own claims address and recognition on the packaging. The quality guarantee of those products is also safeguarded by the foundation.
   
   
7. What else is important when offering flower bulbs for sale to the consumer?
   
   Flower bulbs must be purchased in the right season and it is important that the flower bulbs be planted in careful observation of the planting instruction. The so-called spring-flowering bulbs are for sale in the period from September through January (e.g. tulip, daffodil, snow drop). The so-called summer- flowering bulbs are for sale in the period from February through May (e.g. gladiolus, dahlia). The flower bulbs must be stored at the retail outlet under the right conditions (for instance at the right temperature).
   
   
8. Which organisations can become members of the foundation?
   
   Exporters of flower bulbs who meet the conditions and comply with the regulations of the foundation can apply to the foundation. Consequently, the foundation assesses whether the company is to be admitted after a year of probation.
   
   
9. What makes the hallmark bulb so special?
   
   The Holland Flower Bulb Hallmark Foundation has set rules and quality requirements with which a company must comply before being allowed to participate in the foundation. Only companies that are members of the foundation may offer hallmark flower bulbs for sale.
   
   Members of the foundation are inspected by an independent and expert inspection agency upon compliance with the regulations and quality requirements as imposed by the foundation. The associated company gives the flower bulbs  the necessary treatment with utmost care before offering them for sale on the market. Flower bulbs that do not meet these requirements may not be sold. If this is done anyway, disciplinary action will be taken.