We would like to introduce you to Herman Van Osselaer, strawberry grower for Hoogstraten since 2010. Years ago, he started growing strawberries in the open air. Currently, strawberries are still the main product at his company, but he also grows kiwi berries. The kiwiberry is the ideal complement to the strawberry crop. Herman used to grow strawberries in full soil on the fields, but due to soil fatigue and the accessibility of the soil, he decided to plant kiwi berries there. Through the former Profruco auction and Hogeschool Gent, Herman came into contact with this unique product for the first time. The combination with strawberry cultivation makes for a busy agenda, but the variety also keeps it interesting. During the winter months the kiwiberry plants have to be pruned, and in spring they are mowed and young shoots are tied back. In summer, the plants are pruned again, after which they can be harvested in August and September. Both the strawberries and the kiwi berries are sold under the Hoogstraten label. This is a quality label that Herman is proud of as a grower. Quality fruit is grown in this way and traded through a recognised channel. For Herman, real relaxation means going for a bicycle ride with fellow growers.