Bom Group marks 60th anniversary and unveils new logo

Dutch greenhouse construction company Bom Group, based in the Westland region of the Netherlands, marked its 60th anniversary with a well-attended celebration for staff, customers, and relations. The event included the unveiling of a new company logo and pay-off: Turning Sunlight Into Growth.

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Speakers at the event included Silke Hemming of Wageningen University & Research, Westland mayor Bouke Arends, racing driver Tim Coronel, and Marck Hagen of Atrium Agri.

Among those present were long-serving employees Koos van Schie and Cor Sepers, both with 49 years at the company, the longest-serving members of the Bom team.

© Arlette Sijmonsma | MMJDaily.com

And of course for relations and acquaintances, lots of acquaintances. Wim Grootscholte, Cor van der Kaaij, and Leo van der Lans quickly found each other. But there was also plenty to catch up on for Bom's own colleagues and former colleagues. What would you expect, with employees like Koos van Schie, who together with Cor Sepers (not pictured) is the longest-serving employee of the company and has been with Bom for no less than 49 years. And although Bram van der Kooij and Piet Bom unfortunately could not be there, Piet van Vliet was certainly also able to bring back many good memories.

© Arlette Sijmonsma | MMJDaily.comOn the right is Koos van Schie, who together with Cor Sepers (not pictured) is the longest-serving employee of the company and has been with Bom for no less than 49 years

© Arlette Sijmonsma | MMJDaily.comPeter van der Voort, Bom, with Michel Broch, PB Tec, and Piet van Vliet, former owner of Bom

Tribute
CEO Johan van Geest, who took the helm a year ago, views the anniversary primarily as a tribute to those who shaped the business. "Sixty years of success is the legacy of generations of employees, customers, and partners who have contributed to it. I am proud to be part of this story and to help build the next chapter."

Innovation as the foundation
The groundwork for Bom Group's success was laid early. Founder Piet Bom introduced the aluminium cover system for greenhouses in the 1980s — an innovation that had a global impact on the sector.

"It was truly groundbreaking," says Van Geest. "Where greenhouses previously consisted mainly of steel and concrete, this system brought about an enormous change. It was comparable to the transition from horse and cart to the automobile. It positioned Bom Group as an innovator in the sector, a reputation we continue to build on."

© Arlette Sijmonsma | MMJDaily.com

From product to partnership
Where the focus once lay primarily on greenhouse design, the role of the greenhouse builder has broadened considerably. "A greenhouse has increasingly become a complete technical concept," Van Geest explains. "Technology such as LED lighting, climate systems, and automation plays a growing role. As a result, our added value is shifting from the product alone toward collaboration, knowledge, and project development."

Networks and partnerships are central to this shift. Joining Atrium Agri in 2019 was a significant step. "By working together within the group, we can offer customers far more complete solutions and operate more effectively at an international level."

Collaboration as DNA
Collaboration is deeply embedded in Bom Group's culture. The company deliberately works with established partners and subcontractors, positioning itself as architect and director of complex greenhouse projects. "We cannot and do not want to go it alone," says Van Geest. "By working intensively throughout the entire chain, with suppliers, partners, and customers, we create better solutions. That has always been the strength of Dutch horticulture."

A successful project, in his view, starts with a satisfied customer. "If the customer's business case holds up and we jointly realise an innovative project that also generates a return for us, then it is truly a success."

Opportunities in a changing market
The sector faces pressure from geopolitical developments, energy prices, and climate change. At the same time, new opportunities are emerging. "More and more growers are making the move from open-field cultivation to controlled growing in greenhouses or indoor facilities," says Van Geest. "Retailers are demanding supply security and local production. We can play an important role in that with our solutions."

International diversification remains important for managing risk. Projects often require years of preparation, making a long-term vision essential.

People make the difference
Despite the growing role of technology, Van Geest sees one factor as decisive: people. "I am proud that in a challenging market we are still realising strong projects. That is the result of years of investment in relationships, combined with the energy and commitment of our employees." He encourages staff to take ownership and develop their skills. "Complex and challenging projects keep people sharp and motivated. That makes the work more rewarding and ensures we continue to grow as an organisation."

Ambition for the future
Looking ahead, Van Geest has a clear ambition. "I hope we can once again realise a groundbreaking innovation in greenhouse construction. By working more closely within Atrium Agri, we can offer complete, multiscale solutions, from individual growers to large-scale food security projects."

His core message for the anniversary year is straightforward: "Dutch horticulture has grown great through collaboration, openness, and innovation. Especially in times of uncertainty, we must continue to hold onto that. Only together can we move the sector forward."