Building on 47 years of craftsmanship

After nearly five decades of helping build Certhon, founder and former board member John van der Sande is entering a new phase. As of May 1, he will be stepping into a different role. For some time now, John has been systematically transferring his responsibilities to a team of specialists in whom he has full confidence. This allows him to move into an advisory role within Certhon with complete peace of mind.

Certhon continues to grow. In people, in knowledge, and in the complexity of its projects. In recent years, a new generation of specialists has emerged who have quickly mastered the horticultural profession and demonstrate every day that Certhon is ready for its next phase of growth. From high‑tech automation and R&D to agronomy and large‑scale international projects, the foundation is solid.

Confidence in craftsmanship and collaboration
“What I appreciate most,” says John, “is seeing colleagues take ownership and strengthen one another. Projects are developed entirely in‑house, with expertise that is deeply rooted in Certhon.” This is reflected in innovative climate solutions, advanced automation and cultivation systems in which energy efficiency, predictability and quality come together.

Building, testing, improving and optimizing, together, has always been at the heart of Certhon. And it is exactly this strength on which the company will continue to build in the future.

Continuity for customers
For customers, this step primarily means continuity and stability. Both ongoing and new projects remain in the hands of familiar teams who thoroughly understand the content, practice and ambitions of their customers. The specialist knowledge that distinguishes Certhon is not dependent on one individual, but firmly embedded in a close‑knit and experienced team.

John remains involved as an advisor and sparring partner. He supports colleagues in customer studies, the development of new concepts and specific projects. His experience remains available, while day‑to‑day responsibility continues to shift increasingly to the team.

Ready for the next generation of growth
With this step, Certhon reinforces its long‑term vision: to keep innovating, collaborating and investing in people. By combining generations of experience with new insights, technology and data, Certhon continues to develop solutions that give growers greater control over yield, quality and predictability, anywhere in the world.

Together with customers and partners, Certhon remains committed to building smarter, more sustainable and future‑proof cultivation systems.