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familiebedrijf sinds 1929

The history of the family business Zandvliet Vleeswaren dates back to 1929. That year, Martinus Zandvliet founded 'Vleeshouwerij en Spekslagerij Zandvliet' in The Hague. In 1948, he was joined in the daily management by his sons, Loek and Jan. The company quickly grew from a butcher's shop into a well-known meat products manufacturer, producing for traditional butchers, the industry, and the retail market.

 

Due to the rapid growth of the company, the main location soon became too small to accommodate all the business activities. In addition to the butcher shop and wholesale business in The Hague, Zandvliet moved into a more modern facility in Leiden. Thanks to the ongoing growth, the entire company relocated in 1968 to a newly constructed complex in the industrial area of Delft. This location was further expanded in 1974 and 1991.

 

Along with its success and growth, the company also faced setbacks. In June 1998, a devastating fire destroyed the business at the Faradayweg location in Delft. This was a major blow. However, quick action helped limit the damage. Together with clients, business partners, and fellow manufacturers, Zandvliet managed to keep production running. Additionally, work immediately began on the construction of a new facility. The building of this new plant was completed on March 24, 2000.

Enjoyment, Convenience, and Health

 

Zandvliet Vleeswaren now operates three separate production companies. "We have one company for producing sausages, another for creating meal components, and a third for slicing cold cuts. At all of our companies, we place great importance on product development. Enjoyment, convenience, and health are the key factors in this process. These are the criteria we use when developing new products. Of course, we always respond to market demands. For example, there is currently a strong growing demand for flavorful products with lower salt and fat content, at affordable consumer prices, and for gluten- and allergen-free products. As soon as we identify this, we get to work. And to successfully introduce and present the products, we always think creatively and commercially with the buyers." This approach is highly valued by their business partners, as evidenced by the fact that Zandvliet has been awarded the title of "Golden Partner" for retail multiple times: in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2012, 2016, and 2018.

 

The products in Zandvliet's range can be divided into different usage moments: Breakfast & Lunch, Party Time, Cooking, and Indulging. "With Zandvliet meats, there's always a moment to indulge the gourmet in you. From snacks to sandwiches, or from salads to 'just because'. In our flavor enhancers, you can taste the traditional preparation methods and pure ingredients."

Sustainability in Every Business Process

Zandvliet Vleeswaren places great value on corporate social responsibility (CSR). "With CSR, we strive for sustainability in every business process. We aim to create a balance between social, ecological, and economic factors. These are also known as ‘people, planet, and profit’." Through responsible business practices, Zandvliet Vleeswaren aims to achieve four key goals.

 

"First, we want to be an attractive employer who motivates its employees because motivated employees contribute to increased productivity. Second, we aim to minimize the use of saturated fats, salt, and sugar in our products, all while maintaining the right flavor experience."

 

"Third, Zandvliet strives to make its products accessible to everyone. This includes people with allergies. Therefore, we use as few E-numbers, additives, and allergens as possible in our products. This is an ongoing process where we closely follow the latest developments."

 

The fourth and final CSR goal is to minimize waste. "We closely monitor our waste production. Using less packaging material leads to less waste, which results in less transportation. This is better for the environment and also cost-saving. With cardboard packaging, we aim to meet the requirements of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).”

 

Part of Group of Butchers

Since May 2021, Zandvliet Vleeswaren has been a part of Group of Butchers. "We deliver ‘Butchers best’ to our customers—the true butcher quality. Zandvliet Vleeswaren is also known for its artisanal, high-quality products and innovations. We are very pleased with the addition of Zandvliet Vleeswaren to Group of Butchers," explains Remko Rosman, CEO of Group of Butchers. "The collaboration has been great for both parties. We look forward to continuing to grow, innovate, and deliver the very best products to our customers every day."

 

In addition to a high-quality range of artisanal products, both under private label and the Zandvliet brand, Zandvliet Vleeswaren also brings extensive knowledge in slicing and dicing. Rosman adds: "Zandvliet has developed an impressive slicing technology, where the cold cuts are sliced and packaged the same way as they would be in-store. The focus is not on speed but on presenting the final product in the most appetizing way possible. This technology is a wonderful asset to Group of Butchers, from which our customers benefit. With this method, you get the most delicious pre-sliced products straight from the shelf."

 

Loek Zandvliet, owner of Zandvliet Vleeswaren, is also very satisfied with the partnership with Group of Butchers: "The combination of our strengths makes it possible to focus even more on innovation and to further improve our premium service. Within Group of Butchers, we will continue to innovate in all the categories where we are active, to serve consumers with the best cold cuts and concepts."

Let's make something special together!

 
Group of Butchers is committed to delivering the finest and highest-quality products. We want to be the best. Working at Group of Butchers means striving to be the best in the role you play. It's about challenging yourself, innovating, and daring to take initiative. We are looking for people who are proactive, think along with us, and are continuously looking to improve. Every employee at Group of Butchers is a vital link in the chain. We encourage employee development through a variety of training programs, courses, and workshops. You are in control of your career. Group of Butchers offers you exciting roles at various locations, each with a passion for what they do. Do you want to be proud of what you do every day? Join the butchers!

 

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