On Saturday October 1 Leo de Kock & Zn. B.V. celebrated its centennial. An ivory anniversary that was celebrated with a big party at the company in Purmerend. Guest from the world of potatoes, contacts and family of founder Leo de Kock, were received for a festive reception.
De Meisjes met de Wijsjes gave the party a cheerful note
The programme was lead by ringmaster Marit van Bohemen. After a friendly welcome to all the guest, Mariska Werring, marketing manager at Leo de Kock spoke. She took a look at the company's past, but mainly looked forward.
Marit van Bohemen congratulates Leo de Kock, son of founder Leo de Kock
This was followed by various speakers who reflected on this special milestone. Jan van Hoogen, director of Agrico, proudly spoke about the subsidiary and his faith in the future.
Jan van Hoogen of Agrico
The mayor of Permerend, Don Bijl, also spoke to the invitees and said he hopes that the company remains in his municipality for a long time.
Mayor Don Bijl of Purmerend
Said Belhassan spoke on behalf of Albert Heijn. This Senior Director of Merchandising & Sourcing Fruit and Vegetables, Flowers & Plants, spoke about the years long relationship and the importance of quality and innovation. During his speech a beautiful painting by artist Jacqueline Hoenselaar, that represented the years of cooperation between AH and Leo de Kock, was presented. The formal programme was closed with a surprise presentation by bureau Rozenbrood. An image of the potato in 2116 was sketched under the title 'Spuds in Space'.
Said Belhassan, Albert Heijn
After this official part there was the opportunity to follow the potato trail through the company and to enjoy a spud snack and drink. The history of the company started in 1916, or actually in 1895 when Leo de Kock was born in Amsterdam. At the age of 21 he started selling potatoes from his parental farm in Landsmeer. In the year that followed the company developed itself and the retail.
Revealing of gift from Albert Heijn
At the end of the forties there were self service businesses and grocers were widening their assortment. The supermarkets as we know them now, came into existence, and this meant demand for other products. Leo was one of the first to think of selling the potatoes in bags. A brilliant idea that the companies is still profiting from today. In 1977 the company moved to Purmerend when the location in Landsmeer became too small.
A warm reception for the family of the founder, Leo de Kock
A new building is being built at the current location with enough space. The potato world is also developing and Leo de Kock will be collaborating with Agrico, a potato grower cooperation. They are taking a majority interest in the company and Leo de Kock will be a subsidiary of Agrico. Leo de Kock's sons worked in the company for a long time and in the nineties the brothers Ben, Louis and Leo said goodbye. Claris ten Napel took over and has been running the company since then.
Marketing manager Mariska Werring speaks on behalf of Leo de Kock
The company has also moved forward in recent years. A full separate organic hall has been created where the potatoes are treated, washed and packaged separately. The assortment has been extended and there are increasingly specialised varieties and packagings being added. Special varieties such as Ratte and Cerisa have been added, as has the sweet potatoes and Dutch classics, such as Meerlander and Koopmans Blauwe, have made a comeback.
Lots of viewers at the Potato Trial
After 100 years of history Leo de Kock looks towards the next 100 with faith and positivity.
For an extensive photo selection: www.leodekock.nl/100-jaar.
For more information:
Leo de Kock & Zn
Anke Poortman
T: 0031 (0) 299-420975
anke@leodekock.nl
www.leodekock.nl