For years, Trustpack Services has specialized in repacking, co-packing, and packaging of fruits and vegetables. "My father Yurdal has been in the industry for forty years, and for the past seven years, we've operated under the Trustpack name. We started in VDH's building in Ridderkerk, but soon outgrew it and found a second location in the nearby Broom Frio building," says Mikael Tas.
Mehmet and Mikael Tas
"Many customers, both regular and occasional, bring their produce to us, and we take all the hassle off their hands, whether it's repacking bulk products into consumer units, labeling individual items, sorting a variety of types and sizes, or conducting thorough inspections and checks of products. Customers can have their goods unloaded, stored, packaged, and loaded for delivery to their clients with us. For some, we truly are a one-stop-shop," Mikael explains. Trustpack Services employs about thirty full-time colleagues, in addition to another thirty people on a flexible basis.
The conveyance systems were designed, manufactured, and installed in-house. The tables are foldable, which is particularly convenient for cleaning the machine and floor.
The need for packaging services is evident as Trustpack continues to outgrow its two current locations. "We're currently looking for a new facility in Ridderkerk, as it remains a strategic hub near the Port of Rotterdam and with all the new developments at Dutch Fresh Port. However, available space is scarce and expensive, so we're searching diligently," Mikael says with a laugh.
At both locations, Trustpack has multiple packaging machines for sorting, top seal, clamshell, foodtainer, flowpack, as well as clipper and girsac machines, alongside a large number of tables and stations for the necessary manual work. According to Mikael, competition is not an issue. "We prefer to think of them as 'frenemies.' The market is big enough for everyone to make a living."
A display, with the workshop cooling motors in the background
Although the company provides packaging services for the entire range of fruits and vegetables, grapes take up the largest share. "We pack grapes all year round. Currently, we are at the tail end of the South African season and are also packing grapes from India. Our pepper activities mainly take place from April to October. Packaging and sorting of citrus is primarily from May to November. Our peak season is definitely between October and May. During the summer holidays, we traditionally have a bit less to do, but that's okay, as it allows us to send our people on vacation with peace of mind."
Click here for the video of grapes on their way to the machine
"Our biggest challenge is to make further strides in digitalization. We're convinced that our customers will eventually demand it, but we want to stay ahead of the curve, which they'll probably appreciate. That's why we're actively engaging with partners to find the best solutions. We've also become more active online to increase our brand awareness."
For more information:
Mikael Tas
Trustpack Services
Mob: 06 42 53 60 85
packing@trustpack.nl
www.trustpack.nl