10 Questions with Sido Fokkema: The Visionary Behind Sideau® and Sustainable Floristry

At No Plastic Floral Foam!, we are dedicated to supporting florists and floral designers in making the switch to sustainable materials. One of the key innovators leading the charge in eco-friendly floristry is Sido Fokkema, the founder of Agra-Wool International and the creator of Sideau®, the biodegradable alternative to traditional floral foam.

In this exclusive interview, we dive into Sido's journey, the inspiration behind Sideau®, and his thoughts on the future of sustainable floristry.

1. For those who don’t know you, who are you, and what do you do?

"I am Sido Fokkema, founder of Agra-Wool International, and a passionate advocate for sustainability in floristry. My company specializes in developing natural rockwool substrates and **biodegradable floral blocks** that help florists transition away from plastic-based floral foam. Since 2018, Sideau® has been a game-changer, providing a plastic-free solution that aligns with the industry's growing environmental awareness."

2. What makes your work special?

"The most rewarding part of my job is developing sustainable solutions that directly impact the floral industry. Our innovation extends beyond florists—we also provide rockwool substrates for **agriculture, horticulture, and the hospitality industry**. Seeing our products used in floral arrangements worldwide reinforces our mission: to eliminate plastic floral foam and create a more sustainable industry."

3. What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in bringing Sideau® to market?

"One of our biggest challenges is educating florists about sustainable alternatives. Many expect a **miracle product** that works exactly like traditional floral foam, but the transition requires a shift in mindset. Additionally, some competitors try to replicate our product with inferior materials, making it crucial for us to **educate consumers about the quality and reliability of Sideau®**."

4. What are the biggest threats to the floral industry’s sustainability efforts?

"The **cost of sustainable materials** remains a challenge. Many florists want to be more eco-friendly, but **pricing pressure from conventional plastic-based foam products** makes it difficult. Our goal is to continue refining our production process to keep Sideau® **affordable while maintaining quality and sustainability**."

5. How has digital marketing and e-commerce affected your industry?

"Digital marketing has helped raise **awareness of sustainability** in floristry. Florists and event designers **share their Sideau® creations on social media**, which has significantly boosted our brand's visibility. The demand for sustainable products is growing, and more wholesalers and retailers are recognizing the need to **offer eco-friendly options**."

6. Who inspires you in or outside the floral industry?

"I don’t have one specific role model, but I have always been inspired by **people who think differently and challenge traditional practices**. The drive to innovate and make **sustainability the new standard in floristry** keeps me motivated."

7. How do you manage stress and maintain a work-life balance?

"I am someone who likes to handle everything at once, which can be overwhelming. My wife, Ineke, and our incredible team help keep me grounded. Spending **time with family, enjoying good food, and soon getting back into exercise** are ways I manage stress and recharge."

8. What has been the biggest positive shift in the industry recently?

"I’m happy to see **increased awareness of the damage caused by traditional floral foam**. More consumers and florists are realizing the **long-term effects of plastic-based floral materials**, and the demand for sustainable alternatives like Sideau® is growing. The future is promising!"

9. What is your favorite flower and why?

"The Gerbera. It has been a key flower in our company’s journey, and its resilience and vibrancy mirror our mission in floristry."

10. What are your plans for the weekend?

"Weekends are for **renovation projects and family time**. We’re working on opening a **B&B**, and spending time with loved ones keeps me balanced."

Final Thoughts: The Future of Sustainable Floristry

Sido Fokkema and Sideau® are driving real change in the floral industry. By replacing plastic floral foam with **a biodegradable, reusable alternative**, Sideau® is shaping the future of sustainable floristry. At No Plastic Floral Foam!, we support this movement and encourage florists to embrace more **eco-friendly materials**.

Are you ready to switch to sustainable floral design? Learn more about Sideau® here.

This article was first published on Thursd.com.