Innovative Packaging for a Sustainable Future
Interview with Philip De Bie, CEO and Bénédicte Soenen, Sales Director of Soenen Golfkarton NV
Whether it's packaging for waffles, pet food, or high-tech components – Soenen Golfkarton NV is one of the leading providers of custom corrugated packaging in Northwest Europe. With two highly automated locations and a clear focus on innovation and sustainability, this family-owned company stands for quality and customer proximity. In a conversation with CEO Philip De Bie and Sales Director Bénédicte Soenen, the discussion revolves around efficient processes, digital transformation, and the ambitious plans to also conquer the German market in the future.
Wirtschaftsforum: Mr. De Bie, Ms. Soenen – Soenen Golfkarton is one of the leading packaging specialists in Belgium. How has the family business developed?
Philip De Bie: Soenen Golfkarton was founded in 1964 and today is one of the leading corrugated cardboard manufacturers in Belgium. I joined the company last year through a project and took over management after the sudden death of Louis-Philippe Soenen. My experience in mechanical engineering helps me technically advance the company and lead it with a view to the future.
Bénédicte Soenen: My great-grandfather founded the company, my father Louis-Philippe Soenen took it over in the 1980s and consistently expanded it. With our own cardboard machines, he made us independent and laid the foundation for further growth.
In 2003, two new facilities were added, and in 2014, the HOBO high-bay warehouse. Today, we produce at two locations in Hooglede and Lanklaar, employ about 300 staff, and generate approximately 100 million EUR in revenue.
Wirtschaftsforum: What products are the focus – and what sets you apart from the competition?
Philip De Bie: We manufacture corrugated packaging in all variations – from folding cartons to fruit and beverage trays to die-cut packaging. Our ‘Triple-Wall’ solutions for heavy goods and FanFold packaging for e-commerce are particularly in demand. Our production includes processing the cardboard sheets to the printed final packaging – each solution is individual, not standard.
Bénédicte Soenen: About 70% of our customers come from the food industry, 30% from industry and chemicals. In Lanklaar, we are the only Belgian manufacturer of three-ply corrugated cardboard – a clear competitive advantage. Our customers also include major packaging dealers. Overall, we serve around 600 customers – from medium-sized enterprises to international corporations.
Wirtschaftsforum: How do you ensure service and delivery quality for such diverse customers?
Philip De Bie: We deliver just in time, have a call-off system, and 25 own trucks with trained drivers. Many look after fixed customers and know their processes – this creates trust. Our fleet is at the same time a means of transport and a brand ambassador, carrying our logo far beyond Belgium.
Bénédicte Soenen: Through our customer portal, partners can view order status and production progress at any time. This transparency avoids waiting times and enables communication outside office hours. On LinkedIn, we also inform about innovations and sustainability projects.
Wirtschaftsforum: In which markets are you active, and what is your export share?
Philip De Bie: Our locations serve a radius of about 250 km in Belgium, the Netherlands, northern France, and now also Germany. Because transportation costs are crucial for cardboard packaging, we focus on regional proximity. The export share is about 15% – and rising.
Bénédicte Soenen: This structure allows us to keep transport routes short while simultaneously tapping into new regions. Thus, we combine economic efficiency with ecological responsibility – both central elements of our corporate philosophy.
Wirtschaftsforum: Digitalization and sustainability are shaping the industry – how do you implement these topics?
Philip De Bie: We work completely digitally connected – from order capture to delivery. This reduces errors, increases speed and quality. Digitalization is part of our DNA and the basis of our positioning on Product Leadership.
Bénédicte Soenen: Sustainability is equally important. Since 2011 we use photovoltaics, reduce energy and water consumption, and recycle all waste. Our own beehives' honey symbolizes our respectful approach to the environment.
Wirtschaftsforum: What makes your success – and what goals do you pursue for the future?
Philip De Bie: We are large enough for international customers and small enough for quick decisions. Investments in technology and automation ensure quality and competitiveness. With the Lanklaar site, we want to grow organically and specifically target the German market. The enthusiasm of our team motivates me – to make a difference together drives me forward.
Bénédicte Soenen: Team spirit is equally important: many employees have been with us for decades. Openness and initiative shape our culture – the customers also feel this. After the death of my father, we continue his vision: to invest boldly, remain innovative, and stick together as a family.