A globetrotting onion enthusiast from Ontario, Oregon, embarks on a journey to the Netherlands to witness firsthand the art of onion packaging and retail presentation.
Chris Woo, a seasoned onion expert hailing from Ontario, Oregon, recently embarked on a unique adventure across the Atlantic to the Netherlands. His quest? To delve into the fascinating world of Dutch onion packaging and discover innovative retail practices.
His insightful journey began with a couple of onion shed tours, thanks to Eqraft’s Commerce Director, Rutger Keurhorst, affectionately known to Chris as “Rutger Uber.” Both are shown in the featured image.
When Rutger played the role of tour guide, Chris was introduced to area sheds, visiting Waterman’s and Go Products, where he uncovered fascinating insights into the onion industry. Click on images to enlarge and scroll.
Chris shared photos from a local market, reminiscent in size and ambiance to the beloved United States grocery store chain, Trader Joe’s. “Onions in the tube are common at local downtown markets where many citizens travel on bicycles,” Chris noted. “The unique way retailers package produce for evening meals is very popular. All that’s needed is protein and starch. Each produce kit included onions, and the price is 5.50 Euros.”
At Waterman’s, Chris and Rutger were greeted by the Director, Wim Waterman. Waterman Onions BV has a storied history dating back to the 1950s when A. Waterman & Sons was founded in the province of Zeeland. This company grew, processed, and packed potatoes and onions, creating a legacy that the Waterman family would continue.
In 1998, brothers Erik and Wim Waterman launched their own business, and by 2002, they had constructed new storage rooms, sorting, and packing facilities at their current location. In 2010, an expansion added 5000 m2 of production and warehouse space to the existing buildings, and in 2014, additional facilities were built, housing a canteen, offices, weighing equipment, and workshops.
After an enlightening visit to Waterman’s, Rutger guided Chris to the Go Products onion facility. There, they were greeted by Arjen Goud, who not only provided a comprehensive tour but also extended the opportunity for filming. In one of the videos, Chris astutely observed that the production process included sizing and grading the onions into bins before being transported to another room for packaging.
Go Products is a forward-thinking enterprise specializing in onion sets growing and independent contracting in the grading, packing, and conditioning of consumption onions. A family business with a global network and high-tech equipment, they prioritize delivering outstanding quality.
For more information about Waterman’s, you can visit their website at Waterman Onions.
Additional details about Go Products can be found here: Go Products International.
For more information about Rutger’s company, Eqraft visit: Eqraft
Chris Woo’s journey to the Netherlands offers a glimpse into the intricacies of onion packaging and retail presentation, highlighting the innovation and dedication of Dutch onion professionals.
Now, enjoy a short video of the onion production process at Go Products, which features Eqraft technology.
