Working together: “No need to reinvent the wheel.”

As Technology Production Lead at Holland Malt in Lieshout, Lauri is responsible for turning barley and wheat into high-quality malt. “We supply our own brewery, but we also produce malt for dark beers and whisky, destined for breweries across Belgium and the Caribbean. That makes us unique. Still, Holland Malt doesn’t feel like a separate company. We’re part of Royal Swinkels. You can see the brewery from our building, and we work together every day.”

For Lauri, collaboration is essential. “You can’t do it alone. You get further by sharing knowledge. Sometimes you’re reinventing the wheel when someone else already figured it out.” She sees that same mindset across the company. “There are loads of activities, from escape rooms to lunch & learn sessions. That strengthens the connection, even between teams that don’t work together often.”

Joël also knows the impact of working together. As an Operational Excellence Mentor in the bottling plant, he focuses on audits, certifications, and on-the-job coaching. “When something in the system changes, it affects a lot of people. Everyone needs to understand what’s happening.” His own experience helps with that. “I started here as a temporary employee. Now I train others. That keeps it human. I know what they’re going through.”

Joël works with lots of different teams every day. “When we install something new, it involves tech, safety, and training. You must figure it out together.” What motivates him most is seeing his work make a difference. “I recently helped a young guy who was struggling with his training. In the end, he graduated. Being part of that—knowing you helped—that’s what makes it worth it.”

Gerton, Internal Account Manager, is the link between the field sales team and operations. “I make sure whatever Sales promises to the customer happens. Whether that’s glassware, coasters, aprons, or a full bar setup for an event tent.” His job includes stock management, transport, technical coordination, and events. “I work with different departments every day. You just can’t do this job on your own.”

For Gerton, job satisfaction is when everything comes together. “When everything’s in place, running smoothly, and the client’s happy, that’s the best feeling. I usually try to visit the venue afterward too, to really experience it.” His connection to Royal Swinkels runs deep. “I’ve been here since 1992. My grandparents had a café that served Bavaria. When I got the job, my grandma was so proud. I’ve always seen myself as a real supporter.”

For him, innovation and working together go hand in hand. “Everyone’s encouraged to contribute ideas. Once, I got to pitch one to the board. It didn’t make the final cut, but I got to work it out with Wageningen University. That was amazing.”

Lauri sees the same thing. “Everyone here understands the scale we work on. A small improvement in energy use makes a big impact. We share that mindset, and that’s what brings us together. Just look at the emission-free malthouse in Eemshaven.”