Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) has achieved FlowerWatch approval in Bogota, Colombia to improve quality and vase-life of flowers.

After launching the first FlowerWatch certification in Kenya in June 2019, AFLKMP has extended the programme, which features a unique degree-hour controlled shipping method designed specifically for flowers, to other markets.

Eric Mauroux, global head of perishable logistics at AFKLMP says: “By implementing the FlowerWatch quality insurance system in the main flower markets, we are not only improving the quality and vase life of fresh-cut flowers but also fostering vertical collaboration amongst all stake holders in the supply chain.”

FlowerWatch has developed a fail-safe Quality Assurance system, helping identifying challenges in the cold chain and permanently fix them.

The system’s central concept is ‘time temperature exposure’ expressed in degree hours, measuring the average temperature multiplied by the number of hours.