On the morning of March 20, 2025, there was an early gathering for a group of 30 quality employees in connection with a visit to the European Fruit and Vegetable Centre in Brussels. The participants were not only paying attention to breakfast, but were addressed by three speakers involved in the organization on that morning.
Philippe Devigne, director of the European center, explained its operations with an important emphasis on the further expansion work currently taking place there. "The role and management of the center are unique given the private management of the site."
Veerle Van der Sypt of Fresh Trade Belgium stepped forward to explain the Belgian federation's role in trade. Having good contact with LAVA and the auctions in general was stressed. The common challenges the sector is facing provide enough material for constructive discussions, she indicated. Difficult topics were not discussed in depth but Veerle illustrated the role of the federation and explained how the federation arrives at its position through the board and the members.
John Van Laethem played a pivotal role in chronicling the history of wholesale fresh fruit and vegetables. He acted as a unifying figure among key stakeholders, including the import center, the professional federation, its partners, and all users of the center. With his experience as a treasurer of the federation, a shareholder in the import center, and a former customer, he provided a comprehensive account of how the trade evolved over four generations.
John Van Laethem announces farewell
To conclude, John announced his farewell as he will cease his capacity as business manager in the foreseeable future. A very close cooperation was established with the well-known company Van Lier, which is also located at the fruit and vegetable center. "That transfer of shares was for me the easiest decision ever to take, but emotionally the hardest to carry out," he indicated. "I fondly remember the times I spent traveling with my grandfather and parents in the truck, journeying across the country to gather the finest products."
"The auctions were my field of activity in my youth, always resulting in good contact with the inspectors and quality managers. I believe that Bell'aroma continuing as a quality product under the leadership of Mr. W. De Witte and the entities in his portfolio presents a unique opportunity for the next generation. It allows the children and children-in-law to gradually take over and carry on the legacy."
"It is still a bit early for me and my spouse to take a rest and so we will definitely meet again at some trade fair. For me it will no longer be in the capacity of managing director at Van Laethem, but for those who know me it will be no surprise that I always enjoy a challenge," John concluded.
For more information:
Van Laethem
Quai de la Werkhuizen 112 - M27
1000 Brussels, Belgium
+32 2 569 52 65
info@vanlaethem.eu
www.vanlaethem.eu