Future in Steel – Sustainable, Digital, and Collaborative
Interview with Gregory Rombaut, Sales and Marketing Manager of KS Service Center B.V.
In an industry facing intense global competitive pressure, the Dutch KS Service Center B.V. is charting its own course. The company, part of the KS Industries Group, combines efficient steel processing with a clear commitment to the environment, innovation, and customer engagement. In a conversation with Sales and Marketing Manager Gregory Rombaut, it becomes clear why sustainability is both a strategic core and a promise for the future.
Founded in 1975 with a focus on steel profiles, KS Service Center B.V. soon evolved. To work more independently and efficiently, its own Slitting Line was installed – the cornerstone of today's company. Since 2018, the company has been operating as an independent entity within the KS Industries group, which now includes eight specialized companies. KS Service Center employs about 45 staff and currently produces 140,000 tonnes of steel annually. The focus is on steel strips and sheets, with an emphasis on metallically coated varieties such as zinc-magnesium as well as pickled steel. Customers are predominantly from the construction industry, solar sector, storage technology, and – to a lesser extent – agriculture. "With our decoiling and shearing line, we can quickly and precisely respond to individual customer needs," says Gregory Rombaut. "But what really sets us apart is our commitment to long-term partnerships. Over 90% of our customers have been with us for more than five years." Another focus is the company’s comprehensive sustainability strategy – both internally and externally.
"Steel is one of the most CO2-intensive industries worldwide. Even though we do not produce it ourselves, we are responsible for our contribution," emphasizes Gregory Rombaut. Already today, about 30% of the power demand is covered by the in-house photovoltaic system, the rest comes from certified green electricity. The entire vehicle fleet is electric, as are the forklifts used internally. The factory transport runs on biodiesel, and all steel scraps are consistently recycled. Moreover, the delivery of steel coils has been switched from around 40 truck trips per week to the more environmentally friendly rail transport - made possible through a cooperation with a neighboring freight station. KS also focuses on energy efficiency in other areas: The lighting reacts automatically, and the buildings are heated electrically. Packaging is exclusively made of certified materials. "We are ISO 14001 certified and ranked at level 3 in the Dutch CO2 Performance Ladder," says Gregory Rombaut. "But more important than certificates is our action. Sustainability flows into every business decision we make." This attitude is firmly anchored in the company philosophy - also through CEO Leendert Noordzij, son of the company founder. "He is ethically convinced that we need to make our contribution - for our planet and for future generations," says Gregory Rombaut. "And we believe that sustainability will not only be an attitude in the future but a real selling point." Another advantage is the tight network within the KS group, offering true added value to customers - for example, through targeted connections to suitable partners or sister companies. The most important markets outside the Netherlands include Belgium, France, Germany, and countries in Eastern Europe, such as Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Romania.
Digitalization, Market Conditions, and Outlook
Despite a strong position, the market remains challenging. Before the pandemic, the steel market was relatively stable – today it is highly volatile. Price fluctuations make planning difficult, geopolitical uncertainties and noticeable restraint in construction and increasingly also in the solar industry weigh on business. This is particularly evident in the Dutch solar sector: After a phase of strong demand, the market is now saturated, and it is necessary to open up new markets. At the same time, price pressure is increasing – customers are negotiating harder and are significantly more cost-conscious. “In Europe, strict environmental regulations, CO2 certificates, and high energy costs apply – this is correct and necessary. But it makes competing with providers from regions like Asia or America, where such regulations often lack, difficult,” emphasizes Gregory Rombaut. The company's response lies in efficiency, speed, and digitalization.
Internally, KS Service Center operates almost paperlessly. Processes are digitally mapped, and internal systems are interconnected. The next step: A digital customer portal, currently under testing. It aims to make orders, invoices, and certificates digitally accessible around the clock. "At the same time, we are specifically preparing AI projects in our three core areas - Sales, Operations, and Finance," explains Gregory Rombaut. "We intend to implement AI in both our warehouse management and our revenue forecasting. Our goal is not only to work faster but also smarter." Marketing and external presentation are also evolving. New brochures, a relaunch of the website, and participation in trade fairs like Blechexpo strengthen the profile as a premium provider. However, technical innovation alone is not enough - a change in mindset is also required. In the long term, KS Service Center B.V. aims to operate CO2-neutral as soon as possible. While there is significant interest in sustainable steel, the necessary surcharge still leads to reluctance in many places. Therefore, it is crucial for the company to combine ethical necessity with economic foresight - through targeted investments and lasting customer relationships. Many of these contacts have been in place for years and are based on trust, not just price. "Whoever takes responsibility also gains trust," summarizes Gregory Rombaut.