As a project manager, Joost van den Elzen has to keep a lot of balls in the air at the same time. Which is absolutely necessary, because it’s not easy getting a complete new production location up and running in a short period of time. However, Joost is confident that by early April 2025, we’ll be producing for a major snack food manufacturer like never before.
Tell us all about it, Joost. Why a new production location?
“We’ve outgrown our current location. For example, we can’t keep innovating and improving our production lines, because we’re running out of space. How is that possible? Because our production lines are becoming increasingly longer as we continue to automate them. With these new premises, we’ll have enough space again.”
What will be different there?
“To start with, 20,000 square meters is twice as big. We can also set up super-efficient and lean main production lines based on the latest automation solutions. Self-driving vehicles, improved waste flows, optimal internal flow… And we’ll also be more flexible.”
What do you mean by that?
“We’ll be able to adjust our lines to the client’s requirements in a relatively short time. Transferring between compressed air, water, electricity, and data, enables us to make flexible adjustments really quickly.”
So we’re ready for the future at the new location?
“Absolutely. Although… we initially thought: ‘We can simply lease out some of the extra space.’ But it’s now clear that we’ll need to use all those square meters ourselves. Fortunately, we did buy the machine lines based on growth, which means we can easily keep producing until 2030.”
to work as efficiently as possible”
What is the human-automation ratio?
“We’ll be making smart use of technology to save on manpower. And we don’t mean any disrespect here, as our people are our greatest asset. But every detail counts in our drive to work as efficiently as possible. We’re also investing in employee well-being at the new location.”
How will they notice that?
“We’re making sure that there’s enough natural light, for example; more than required by law. And the canteen will be really excellent. We’re also installing larger lockers, a bicycle shed with battery chargers and camera security, and we’re landscaping the outdoor area so that it’s green and attractive. The same principles apply here, too: it’s the small things that make a big difference.”
When is the official opening?
“We have received early access on December 1, so we can set up the production area and part of the warehouse. From that point on we can start assembling our machinery. The actual relocation, including the office setup, will then take place. We aim to deliver the building on March 3, and complete the entire transition by March 31.”
So it’s a tight schedule. Challenging and hopefully fun too?
“It certainly is. This is what I enjoy most. Of course, I’m looking forward to the moment when we can open the champagne, but working on such a great and results-oriented project together is also fantastic. I’m given all the space I need to do my job. And everyone supports each other, from the management to the people in production. That’s what makes it so great working for Vetipak.”
