The impact of electronic markets: The case of the Dutch Flower Auctions

The concept of electronic markets has been widely researched. There is, however, less experience with its operation and even less with the organisational impact that electronic markets can have on specific companies and sectors. This case study discusses a very specific market which is gradually moving into the electronic age: the Dutch Flower Auction. This auction is the world marketplace for flowers and pot plants. This case is unusual both in terms of industry (agriculture) and the specific nature of the goods dealt with (highly perishable and fragile, where quality is based on perception). This study, therefore, has been particularly revealing for the use of electronic markets as a strategic response in a changing marketplace.