Interview with Arjan Kuipers
3 September 2024
Ötztaler cycling marathon
24 September 2024
A decade of growth and innovation: 1984 – 1994
In 1984, we became an independent company, establishing a strong international presence in the logistics systems market. By 1985, we had expanded our international agent network, driving exports and securing major projects with global brands such as Kellogg’s and Mars. Internally, we created a dedicated division for hardware engineering, panel building, field cabling, and software engineering, and started applying our own PLC control systems to meet evolving customer demands.
System integrators
A key milestone was the development of a tangentially driven chain system, which opened new application possibilities and positioned us as system integrators. This innovation attracted the attention of major companies, leading to our acquisition by Stork and the creation of Stork Conveyor Systems. Collaboration with Stork Bepak allowed us to explore new growth opportunities. However, economic challenges in the late 1980s required a reorganisation led by then-director Kees de Veth, ensuring the company’s survival.
Growing projects
Our export growth persisted, culminating in the opening of our first international office in the UK. During this period, we secured key projects, including major projects with Mars in 1990, where we introduced our zero-pressure zone accumulation conveyor and pioneered the concept of ‘total project engineering,’ as well as the debut of our Automatic Truck Loading system. In 1993, we delivered a fully automated system for Tehalit, successfully transporting and palletising 2-metre-long cable trays with advanced technology and competitive pricing.
Other notable projects during this time included projects with General Electric Plastic Company in 1983, The Kellogg Company in 1985, Philip Morris in 1989, and Brooke Bond, which involved brands like Lipton, PG Tips, and Twinings, in 1991.
In 1984, we became an independent company, establishing a strong international presence in the logistics systems market. By 1985, we had expanded our international agent network, driving exports and securing major projects with global brands such as Kellogg’s and Mars.
