"Software built in the last century was once innovative, but simply no longer meets today's requirements."

Why do you think companies cannot continue to rely on software of the past?

“The future demands true SaaS" Software built in the last century was once innovative, but simply no longer meets today's requirements. Think server-based systems, hosted locally, with limited API capabilities. Those packages slow businesses down. They are inflexible, difficult to integrate with modern tools, and do not provide a solid foundation for AI. Anyone running on those today is basically putting themselves offside for what comes tomorrow."

What makes FreshPortal different in this?

"FreshPortal was developed from the outset as a true SaaS platform. Not old software in a new look, but a fully cloud-native solution. That means: real-time data, direct integrations via powerful APIs and an architecture that grows with your business. Whether you are a grower in Naaldwijk or a trading company in Bogotá or Miami - FreshPortal is instantly deployable worldwide, without technical hassle."

A lot of companies are talking about AI. What specifically does that mean for your customers?

"AI starts with a good foundation: current, structured data. At FreshPortal, we are actively working on AI solutions that can soon be applied in sales automation, document recognition, smart forecasting and customer interaction via AI agents. Because FreshPortal is fully real-time and API-driven, we can seamlessly integrate these innovations into the existing platform. Think automated sales flows, real-time matching of availability and orders, or predictive insights for buyers. Customers who are already thinking and testing along now will soon be at the forefront. AI is not a vague vision of the future, it is now. And we ensure that they will soon be able to use it immediately."

And what about security? Cloud still sounds exciting to some.

"Good question. Security is one of our core values. FreshPortal runs in secure data centers with ISO 27001 certification. All data is encrypted, both during storage and transfer. Customers have full control over permissions and access. And thanks to automatic backups and failover mechanisms, business continuity is assured. In many cases, this is more secure than having your own server in a broom closet."

What is your advice to companies hesitant about moving to SaaS?

"Don't get stuck in what was once good enough. The world is changing too fast. Customers expect speed, insight and flexibility. AI is going to accelerate everything, but only if you are technically ready for it. Legacy software is slowing you down; you're not just falling behind, you're coming to a standstill. My advice: choose a platform that grows with you, that evolves daily, and that offers security, scalability and innovation in one solution. That's FreshPortal."

Finally, how do you see the future of floriculture and technology?

"The coming years will be dominated by digital chains, real-time collaboration and AI-driven decision-making. With that comes technology that is flexible, open, and future-oriented. We are building that infrastructure with FreshPortal together with our customers. And we are doing so globally."

Interview by: Dennis Kluinhaar

For more information contact: marketing@freshportal.com