stow from Spiere-Helkijn was crowned ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’ 2020 this evening. stow CEO Jos De Vuyst received the prestigious award from Prime Minister Alexander De Croo. The 26th edition of the award, organized by EY in collaboration with De Tijd and BNP Paribas Fortis, took place virtually for the first time. A professional jury, made up of leading representatives from the Belgian business and academic worlds, chose stow ahead of the other finalists Abriso-Jiffy, Konings and Van Marcke. stow succeeds Kinepolis, last year’s winner.
An award for Belgian companies that distinguish themselves
EY has organized the ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’ award since 1995. For 26 years, the award has highlighted Belgian companies that distinguish themselves through their innovative approach, bold international vision, strategy, healthy financial position, dedicated teamwork, good governance, ambition and determination to continue to grow.
During this special virtual edition of the ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo presented the trophy to Jos De Vuyst, CEO of stow.
“We’re proud that we still managed to hold this edition of our prestigious award, despite the circumstances. Because our companies create prosperity and well-being, which are needed now more than ever. Belgian entrepreneurs are go-getters who’ll come through this dark period with strength and resilience. They deserve our recognition more than ever”, responded Rudi Braes, Vice-Chair EY EMEIA.
“The ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’ award honours unique Belgian companies that demonstrate an ambitious strategy and successful management. stow has operated in the fast-growing logistics market for more than forty years, successfully capitalizing on the constantly changing trends in the supply chain sector. Growth is in the company’s DNA: it grew from regional player to European market leader between 2014 and 2019. The intensive focus on high efficiency that runs through all processes and products leads to operational excellence within the company”, explained Michèle Sioen, chairman of the jury.
Patrick Rottiers, CEO of EY Belgium added: “In short, the company has everything it takes to be relevant and stay so in future. I’m delighted that we’ve managed to award stow the title of ‘Onderneming van het Jaar®’ 2020 this year, despite Covid-19. The pandemic may have thwarted many things, but not our ambition to shine the spotlight on and reward Belgian entrepreneurs. What’s more, stow is a fine example of determined entrepreneurship, constantly adapting to circumstances and seizing new opportunities.”