On 9 August, Fruit Vandepoel's previous owners, Bernadette and Wim Vandepoel, transferred all the shares of this Belgian wholesaler. It was sold to Paul Ponnet and Guy Claessens. These two have been this company's new owners since that day.
"We are slowly reaching the age where we had to start thinking about the company's continuity. This is the reason for the change," say Wim and Bernadette. "It was very important for us to give our clients a sense of long term security. They needed to be able to continue counting on Fruit Vandepoel's quality products and service."
"At the same time, we think it is important to have a young team at the helm of a company in the fruit and vegetable sector. They are 100% committed to taking the clients, products, and the evolution of the sector into account."
This is why, 18 months ago, Wim and Bernadette started their quest for new owners. They considered various options and had discussions with several interested buyers. In the end, they chose to sell their business to Paul and Guy.
"We are convinced they are the right people to continue our life's work. They will further expand Fruit Vandepoel too. Paul and Guy both have years of experience in the sector. They are also very enthusiastic about continuing to run the company to the current values."
Bernadette had relegated her position to her daughter, Katleen, a while ago already. Katleen will remain active in the company. Wim wants to stay on board for as long as possible. He wants to oversee the first phase of the transfer.
He wants to ensure that things run smoothly. Wim does not want the staff and the company's clients to be affected by the change. Wim will also still be actively involved in the second phase. He will play a supporting role behind the scenes.
"We can look back with great pleasure. We are very pleased that we gained our clients and suppliers trust. We were able to supply them with and buy the best products from them for years. We are also very satisfied with Fruit Vandepoel's employees," say Wim and Bernadette.
"They gave the best of themselves for many years. They gave our clients excellent service. They were able to supply the best, premier products every day. We want to thank them for the many years of wonderful cooperation."
Paul Ponnet and Guy Claessens reacted to the take-over by saying, "It is not our intention to make dramatic changes to the products or the service delivered to clients. It remains Fruit Vandepoel's absolute focus to keep offering the best quality products and top service of the highest level."
"We would then also like to invite people to come and enjoy a bite to eat and something to drink with us. This will be at the Mabru Market's Open Doors Day on the night of 20/21 September."
For more information:
Wim Vandepoel
Tel: +32 (0) 115 87 147
Guy Claessens/Paul Ponnet
Tel: +32 (0) 495 233 581