Former managing director Marius de Groot of De Groot Fresh Group has passed away

Marius de Groot, the former managing director of De Groot Fresh Group in Hedel, died on 29-07-2018 due to the consequences of the disease he was diagnosed with in April 2016. With his death, the family business must say a final goodbye to the remarkable entrepreneur affectionately referred to as ‘Don Mario’, who was passionately committed to the vegetable and fruit trading firm in Hedel for many decades.

He started as a kid at age 14 going from door to door with vegetables and fruit, and developed into one of the largest tradesmen in the sector. In the 1970s, he was the first Dutch fruit trader to independently import bananas, and later also other fruit. He travelled around the world, looking for trade and keeping in touch with suppliers, and with other business relations. This is what he loved doing, because Don Mario was a true people person. He was very commercial, with an unfailing instinct for interesting business, but he also had a heart of gold. And he always found time for a chat and a joke.

His favourite part of the world was South America. He explored the countries on this continent step by step in a time when local infrastructure and communication were at a very basic level. This way, he developed a huge supplier network. Some of them still do business with our organisation to this day. He frequently visited the countries and many of his business relations also became friends.

In 1987, his brother Leonard left the family business. He had worked with Marius since the late 1950s. Marius continued with his sons William and Ben. Ever since, De Groot continued to grow. In 2005, Marius sold his shares to an investment company and left his position as managing director. He remained involved in the company as a Supervisory Board member. He was also active in real estate.

After he retired from his activities at De Groot entirely in 2011, the company came into the capable hands of his sons William and Ben for the full 100 percent. They continued the business, developing into a leading fresh specialist. Marius always remained involved, both in terms of business development and the employees. He was extremely proud that his grandson Maik joined the family business to represent the fourth generation.

Marius knew there was no cure for his condition, but chose to receive life-extending treatments for as long as possible. On 29-07-2018, he had to give up the fight. He died in the presence of his loved ones. This marks the end of a unique, colourful life.

You may extend your condolences by email at familie@degrootfreshgroup.nl

Please call 06-33888800 for more information or if you have questions.