A factory in motion
Major steps taken to modernise the Schiedam factory are bearing fruit
The substrate factory of Klasmann-Deilmann in Schiedam has undergone a huge modernisation process in recent years. Under the leadership of Ronald Sonneveld, Head of Production and Logistics, the factory has been updated to the latest technical standards step by step. Sonneveld joined the substrate industry at Klasmann-Deilmann four years ago and, in his own words, „jumped on a moving train“. He started the modernisation process immediately. His mission was clear: to improve the factory, making it more efficient and reliable. And he succeeded.
One of the first major projects was the implementation of new software for the mixing line. This was intended to ensure more accurate dosing of raw materials and fertilisers to improve product quality even further. The software was introduced in phases, first on two existing mixing lines and then, when expanding, on a third.
Especially the third line was a great success. Delivery reliability increased, the production of blocking substrates became more evenly distributed, the risks in the process were reduced, and the total output per hour increased.
Investing in hardware for maximum precision
To achieve optimal dosing, Klasmann-Deilmann in Schiedam invested in modern bunkers and switched from vibratory to belt dosers. “This has resulted in fewer interruptions,” explains Sonneveld. The company also expanded its packaging capacity with a second big-bale press and seven large bunkers for short-term storage, each the size of a lorry. Thanks to this extra capacity, it is now possible to work ahead and deliver faster.
The modifications have delivered visible results
The innovations and improvements required some fine-tuning initially, but are now delivering measurable results. Delivery reliability has increased, product quality has demonstrably improved. Sonneveld comments: „An important indicator of success in this regard was that all customers received their ordered substrate on the agreed date during the peak season. This fits in well with our slogan: ‘Relax, it’s Klasmann-Deilmann’.”
Expansion in coir processing
In addition, a new stage has been reached in the processing of coir. Coir crush is now produced separately in Schiedam. „By producing it ourselves, we have better control over coir crush stocks. This also improves the reliability of deliveries of our substrates. This expansion enables us to deliver quickly to customers in the western Netherlands at lower transport costs. This proximity and product security is a logical step given the growing demand for high-quality coconut products,“ says Sonneveld.
Sonneveld is proud of the team’s achievements. “We have achieved economies of scale, but we have also built a skilled and committed team. The people here know exactly what they are doing. Producing good substrate is really complex, and high staff turnover does not help,“ he says. „When you see what we are doing together to supply high-quality substrate for every plant, you can only be proud of that.“
