Key Takeaways
- Van der Knaap Group appoints Stephan to lead its Rooting business unit.
- He will oversee production sites in Kwintsheul and Honselersdijk.
- Priorities include logistics efficiency, automation, digitisation, and international expansion.
- Co-founder Perry van der Knaap transitions into an advisory role focused on innovation and property management.
- The company continues to emphasise sustainability and long-term sector partnerships.
Van der Knaap Group Strengthens Leadership with New Head of Rooting Unit
Van der Knaap Group has announced that Stephan van Santen will take over management of its Rooting business unit, overseeing the company’s production facilities in Kwintsheul and Honselersdijk in the Netherlands. These sites are responsible for producing the company’s various rooting media for growers.
Stephan van Santen noted that his top priority is ensuring consistent quality: “Working with all my colleagues and partners to ensure that we continue to make the right products that growers can rely on. Quality, specifications, everything has to be right.”
Focus on Logistics, Automation, and International Expansion
In his new role, van Santen will advance several operational initiatives, including improving logistics efficiency at production locations and strengthening automation and digitisation. He brings prior experience in these areas and aims to implement new processes designed to support long-term operational performance.
Another central focus will be expanding the international footprint of the Rooting business unit. Plans include establishing new production locations in Central and South America to meet growing global demand.
When asked what drew him to the organization, he highlighted the strategic ambition of Van der Knaap Group and the strength of its partnerships. He emphasized that sustainability is increasingly important for the future of horticulture and aligns closely with the company’s mission.
Perry van der Knaap Moves Into Advisory and Innovation-Focused Role
Co-founder Perry van der Knaap, who has spent four decades with the company, will continue to contribute in an advisory capacity within the Rooting business unit. He will remain engaged in innovations related to rooting media while also taking an active role in property management and development projects across the organisation.
His responsibilities will include managing and optimizing the existing property portfolio, ensuring sustainable development of new sites, and coordinating closely with internal teams and external partners.
Company Looks Ahead to New Milestones
With the leadership transition in place, Van der Knaap Group expressed confidence in its direction and stated that the organisation is looking forward to achieving new milestones through continued collaboration, innovation, and international growth.
Van der Knaap Group
Van der Knaap is a group of companies specializing in high-quality organic solutions for plant rooting and growth. The company is a key player in professional horticulture, offering sustainable peat moss and coco peat-based products that are 100% recyclable.
By controlling the full production chain—from raw material extraction to distribution—The company maintains consistent quality, supported by RHP and ISO 9001:2008 certifications. Products are developed in close collaboration with growers to meet needs across all cultivation phases.
