Sustainable cooperation with Leros Chemie


Leros Chemie in Oss was founded half a century ago, and we have been working with them for over thirty years. We could call this a sustainable relationship. Over the years, the wholesaler has grown from a small importer into a professional Satino Partner.
 

The cooperation with Leros Chemie started in the late 1970s. “We have had only three different contact persons at Van Houtum in all that time," says managing director Jan van der Leest, satisfied. “That builds trust and a lasting relationship. The current sales advisor, Gerard Kraaijeveld, knows our company like the back of his hand. If there are problems, he genuinely joins in to find a solution. It's a pleasure doing business like that.”


“My father founded the company in 1960 for the import of cleaning materials. He focused mainly on the retail trade, which could still be found on every street corner back then. That trade also led to schools, community centres and other institutions knocking on our door for economy-size packages. As a result, we developed into a complete professional cleaning programme. We not only carry cleaning supplies and materials, but also hand-cleaning products, paper goods, dispensers and equipment trolleys.”

 

Corporate social responsibility is increasingly important, also in the cleaning sector. What is Leros doing in this respect? “At the beginning of October we took part in the CSO workshop for Satino Partners in Swalmen,” says Jan van der Leest. “I felt it was very useful. We are currently considering how we can communicate the sustainability aspect externally. We've got the right partner in Van Houtum. With their experience they can provide specific support for that process.”

 

The new building at Rijnstraat, which Leros moved into at the end of November 2008, suits perfectly well. It is in a convenient location with plenty of room for offices, showroom and storage (600 m²). The showroom will be modified though. “We want to project a stronger image and are thinking of a wall-sized photograph of a shop window display with Satino products.”

 

Despite the credit crunch, business is thriving. Jan van der Leest hopes to keep it that way: “Leros is a small, flexible company that mainly operates regionally. Our main customers are schools, sports centres and cleaning companies. Our aim is to offer a total package. If a customer has specific wishes, we can adjust the package so that everything can be arranged and delivered quickly. After all, the customer is always right!”