Case Study: Verbist Aardappelen
The delivery and maintenance of a complete production line
Verbist Aardappelen
The history of Verbist Potatoes, now located in Hulshout, Belgium, begins in 1894 in a mill in Nijlen. The current owner, Carl Verbist, is now the fourth generation to lead the company, which has been active for over three centuries. When Carl’s father, Sjef, took over from his father in 1970, the company had a wide range of operations. They sold animal feed, fertilizers, grain, and potatoes.
In 1998, the decision was made to start a peeling plant alongside the existing business. In preparation for this, they also contacted Marcelissen to supply the machinery. When Carl took over the business from his father in 2004, he decided to focus entirely on potatoes. They aimed to become one of the top players in the industry.
Over the years, Verbist Potatoes evolved into a fully-fledged and modern technological company where potatoes are peeled and processed into fresh potato products.
In 2009, Verbist left Nijlen and relocated to Hulshout. Approximately 400 customers are supplied three times a week, mainly with fresh fries.
Founded in 1894
Over 400 customers
Collaborating with Marcelissen since 1997
The Problem
In 1997, Verbist was exploring the possibility of shifting its focus from trading to potato processing. With their knowledge of the potato market and the increasing demand for freshly peeled and sliced products, Verbist saw an opportunity to further specialize and supply this market with high-quality potato products.
Since processing required an entirely new production line and expertise, they began searching for a supplier who could not only provide the machinery but also offer maintenance and advice. It was crucial that the quality of the process and the final product were and still are the most important factors.
Through their then Belgian agent, they established contact with Marcelissen, who had already built a good reputation in the market for food processing machinery.
The Solution
Our solution was to provide the complete production line for producing fresh fries. We also handled the project management regarding the installation and commissioning of the machines.
Even now, after all these years, we act as project managers when it comes to the production line. If Verbist is looking for expansion that cannot be provided by us directly, we ensure that the right equipment is selected, purchased, and installed.
Delivered Machines
Complete production line for potato processing (washing, peeling, and cutting).
The Result
Verbist Potatoes has been using Marcelissen machines since the late 1990s when they started their potato processing activities. The quality of the production line, our problem-solving ability, and the service we provide have made Verbist a loyal customer for over a quarter of a century.
Naturally, all machinery is subject to replacement and/or upgrades over time. Marcelissen anticipates this by providing timely advice. We also take care of the maintenance of the entire line. This approach results in minimal downtime and maximum production efficiency.
Verbist puts their trust in Marcelissen us when it comes to the production line. We provide transparent advice and also recommend third-party peripheral equipment where we cannot provide it themselves. This ensures a seamless production process.
The Impact
The collaboration between Verbist Potatoes and Marcelissen goes beyond a traditional supplier-customer relationship. We have complete trust in each other. This allows us to meet Verbist’s machine needs optimally and ensure efficient processing and production of their potato products.
“After purchasing our first two potato lines from Marcelissen, we are still a satisfied customer 26 years later. Thanks in part to the maintenance contract we have with Marcelissen, the machines are still working perfectly. Our third line will definitely come from Marcelissen again!” – Carl Verbist, Owner
