Bord Bia (& formally Bord Glas) introduced the first quality scheme for the Food Horticulture sector in 1991.
Quality programmes for the Amenity sectors were developed in subsequent years and include:
The Garden Centre Quality Awards was introduced in 1992, while the Nursery/Amenity Quality Scheme was introduced to the industry in 2003. 2005 saw the introduction of the Quality Scheme for Landscape Contractors. All of the schemes were developed in close consultation with industry representatives, associated bodies and industry experts.
The Amenity Quality Programmes were developed as business improvement schemes. Businesses have benefited either by improving compliance with statutory requirements, and/or recognising where business processes can be changed to improve future performance.
Objectives
To provide horticultural enterprises with the guidelines on ‘best practice’ in managing their businesses:
- To define quality standards for the industry.
- To improve overall standards within the industry.
- To provide a Quality Mark that would be used to differentiate quality businesses.
- To increase productivity and efficiency.
- To improve overall standards within the industry.
- To assist businesses to comply with legislative requirements.
- To increase B2B customer confidence in the industry.
- To create a positive image for the industry among consumers.
- To reward excellence
Inspection & Certification
The inspections on all three schemes are carried out by independent auditors.
Application
Application forms are distributed each February and accepted until 30th April.
You may also discuss details of the scheme at any time by contacting
Carol Marks – carol.marks@bordbia.ie or Tel: 01 6142266