Ecotank: How a family business in Zeeland leads in sustainable tank storage for global food industry
Ecotank, a family-run business in Wemeldinge, Zeeland, has grown from a small floating vendor in 1939 into a key player in tank storage for the international food industry. With a focus on sustainability and customer trust, they are now exploring innovative energy solutions for the future.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Company Name | Ecotank |
| Location | Wemeldinge, municipality of Kapelle, Zeeland |
| Founded | 1939 (current location since 1971) |
| Industry | Tank storage for liquid natural products (primarily food industry) |
| Generations Involved | 3rd and 4th generation of the Warbout family |
| Ownership | Family-owned, with Jaco Moelker as co-owner |
| Key Markets | International, with a focus on Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Ghent |
| Future Plans | Developing an energy hub and contributing to the energy transition |
| Unique Selling Point | Flexible, sustainable, and customer-focused with short communication lines |
The municipality of Kapelle plays a supportive role in promoting local entrepreneurship by highlighting businesses like Ecotank through initiatives such as 'Discover the Entrepreneur.' This program aims to showcase the economic vitality and innovation within the region, fostering community engagement and business growth.
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Discover the Entrepreneur: Ecotank
What began over 80 years ago as a floating vendor in the Wemeldinge harbor in 1939 has now grown into Ecotank. Since 1971, the company has been based at its current location in Wemeldinge, where it has developed into a specialist in tank storage for liquid natural products. They serve international customers, primarily in the food industry. Piet and John Warbout are the third generation in the company. The fourth generation is now also involved, and Jaco Moelker has been a co-owner for several years. Together with their dedicated team, they continue the tradition, with customer focus and sustainability at the heart of their operations.
The water along Wemeldinge is invaluable to our business
What makes Ecotank so special?
“Ecotank is a compact family business where we maintain short lines of communication. This allows us to quickly respond to the needs of our customers, who supply products from all over the world. We are flexible and think along in finding solutions, even when something is not standard. Our committed employees ensure a positive atmosphere and take the environment and surroundings into account. We believe in sustainable customer relationships, where mutual trust and accessibility are central.”
Why was a location in the municipality of Kapelle chosen?
“The founders, Ko and Tannetje Dagevos, lived in Wemeldinge and started the business there. Wemeldinge is centrally located between Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Ghent. Since most products are transported by ship, the location by the water is ideal. This strategic position, with its unloading quay along the Zuid-Beveland Canal, makes Wemeldinge a perfect location for tank storage and logistics.”
What dreams or plans do you have for the future of Ecotank?
“We want to work with our partners to make optimal use of the canal in Wemeldinge and play an active role in the energy transition. For example, we are exploring the possibilities for an energy hub. By collaborating with local businesses, we are discovering new opportunities and innovations. This keeps us future-oriented and committed to sustainable entrepreneurship.”
Ecotank
About Discover the Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurship is in the DNA of the municipality of Kapelle. That’s why every month we shine a spotlight on a local entrepreneur by sharing their unique story. Next month’s featured business: Drogist Hofs-Gijssel.