Creation Horticulture and Royal Brinkman announce strategic partnership to launch Dutch substrates into UK market

Creation Horticulture has entered into a partnership with Royal Brinkman, one of the world’s most established horticultural specialists, in a move "set to reshape the UK growing media landscape".

Creation

The agreement gives Creation Horticulture UK distribution rights to Van der Knaap’s range of substrates, including a peat-free medium, which is expected to be of particular interest to the UK market.

This collaboration marks the first time UK growers will have streamlined access to the full Van der Knaap portfolio under a single supply agreement.

Royal Brinkman was founded in the Netherlands in 1885 and has operations in more than 100
countries.

Creation Horticulture, headquartered in Cannock, distributes to horticultural retailers, garden centres, and commercial growers in the UK and Europe. 

Under this new agreement, all Van der Knaap growing media products will be available for UK distribution through Creation Horticulture, offering customers access to the full global catalogue. However, a focused launch range of 8-10 SKUs will be stocked initially to ensure optimal support and supply-chain reliability.

Of particular note is the peat-free substrate developed from recycled coir sourced via circular growing systems. 

Creation Horticulture horticulture head Graham Smith said: “We think this product will be especially impactful and interesting for our customer base.”

The range is aimed at commercial glasshouse growers, large-scale nurseries. independent garden retailers and specialist cultivation stores. 

The official launch is at Four Oaks trade show on 2-3 September 2025 on Creation Horticulture’s stand. Trial samples will be available to customers and stockists.

Van der Knaap will be delivering staff training in the UK ahead of the official launch. Additionally, a
representative from Van der Knaap and Brinkman will be present at Four Oaks to assist with technical enquiries and connect directly with prospective UK buyers.

Smith added: “It’s a unique partnership. Two very recognisable businesses, each strong in its own field, sharing resources to bring something valuable to UK horticulture. It’s an exciting time.”


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