48 years of Wegter: the story of Henriette

Some stories cannot be captured in a single moment. They unfold over years, grow with a company, and are shaped by everything you experience along the way. Henriette's story is one of them.

On January 2, 1978, she began her first workday at Wegter, at Vossenbrink in Delden. Her first office job, and ultimately her last. “I remember it very well. I was so nervous. It was my first office job, and in hindsight, my last too.” At that time, the company was still well-organized and smaller than it is today. Everyone knew each other, had contact with everyone, and the work atmosphere was pleasant. It was an environment where you quickly felt at home.

Working in a different era

In those early years, the work looked completely different from today. Without computers, everything was recorded manually, and processes were slower and more cumbersome. At the same time, the work was clear and less rushed. “We kept track of inventory in ledgers. Everything was done manually. The work was much more cumbersome, but the pace was also much slower. The customer base was smaller, so you had more overview.”

The way of working together was also different. More formal, with clear hierarchies. “You didn't call management by their first names, and you certainly didn't use 'you' (informal). There was a clear distinction between management and staff. But there was care for the staff.”

Adapting to change

In the 48 years that followed, the company continuously changed. The biggest change lies in the way of working and communicating. Where messages were once sent via telex and you had to wait for a reply, communication is now instant and global. “During my years at the reception, I sent messages to suppliers by telex. Then it was a waiting game until something came back. Now you can make contact at any time and get a super-fast response, anywhere in the world.” The pace increased, processes became more efficient, and the work changed. It demanded adaptability and a willingness to grow, something Henriette did all those years.

A place where things never stand still

Over the years, Henriette fulfilled various roles within the company. She worked in administration and sales for the Makro department, was at the reception, and eventually ended up in logistics. There, she found her place. “Logistics is what I enjoy doing most. It's a dynamic department where a lot happens. It's never boring, and I really like that hustle and bustle.” That variety and working with colleagues make the job special for her and ensure that no two days are the same.

Pride comes from the small things

When you look back on 48 years with the same company, it's not just about the big moments. For Henriette, the true value lies in her daily work and the role she has played. “I don't easily feel proud of myself, and I've never had grand ambitions. But I do believe I'm good at teamwork and that I'm reliable.”

It was also important for her to balance work and private life. At a time when this wasn't common, she consciously chose to continue working. “Back then, it was standard practice to stop working once you had children. It took quite a while before my request to continue working part-time was approved.”

Taking a step back, but not letting go

After nearly five decades, Henriette is saying goodbye to Wegter. What she will miss most isn't just the work, but everything that comes with it. “The interaction with colleagues and the lively atmosphere. At work, you experience new developments and constantly have to adapt and grow. I will truly miss that. My world will become a bit smaller soon.”

A company that endures

If she had to describe Wegter in one sentence, she wouldn't hesitate. “A wonderful family business.” And with that, she perfectly summarizes her 48 years at Wegter.

A fitting farewell

On June 19th, we celebrated Henriette's farewell with her family, colleagues, and several former colleagues. It was a moment to reflect on her impressive career of over 48 years and to thank her for everything she has contributed to Wegter.

Henriette, thank you for everything, and enjoy your well-deserved retirement!