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Countertop manufacturer now in Drachten for two years
Two years ago, Montapanel moved from Tolbert to a brand new production site in Drachten. The factory was festively opened at the time and presented as the start of a new phase full of growth ambition. How does the company now look back on that step? Managing director Jos van Steijn shares his experiences.
Montapanel is a Dutch manufacturer of high-quality countertops, specializing in materials such as granite, composite and ceramic. The company has a modern production site of 9,000 m², equipped with advanced machinery for custom production. "The first few months it felt like we had to settle in again," Van Steijn says with a smile. "The lines are set up differently in Drachten than we were used to. We really had to get to know our own factory all over again." Still, he looks back with satisfaction. "That period of getting used to it has made us sharper. And the great thing is: we are now reaping the benefits of this."
One of the most tangible changes in the last two years is a change in the undergluing of the worktops. "Previously we did that with aluminum, now we use plastic," Van Steijn explains. "That may seem like a detail, but it is a substantial improvement. The new material is not only friendlier and safer during processing for our employees, it also makes the countertops lighter in weight. And the kitchen fitters, in turn, appreciate that immensely."
This adjustment is part of Montapanel's broader ambition to continuously optimize work processes. The new factory also has the space for this - literally. Many customers who have visited respond enthusiastically. "We are often told that they are impressed by the machinery and the spaciousness of the building," says Montapanel.
The fact that Montapanel is now "running well" at the new location does not mean that everything happened by itself. Like many companies in the industry, Montapanel is struggling with a tight labor market. Still, progress has been made. "We have managed to recruit new people and train them internally," Van Steijn says. "What helps is that we have a nice business card in Drachten. Think of a neat canteen, a clean working environment and a pleasant atmosphere. People want to work here. Moreover, we attract a broader potential of employees in this region than we used to in Tolbert. The area is larger." The focus on a well-kept work environment is clearly paying off. "We notice that people quickly feel at home here. And that is important, because knowledge and craftsmanship are and will remain essential in our work."
Management is therefore optimistic about the future. Montapanel is ready to gradually scale up production. Van Steijn: "We recognize that the market is currently uncertain, yet also stable. We are ready to continue growing as soon as demand allows."
Two years after the move, the conclusion is clear: the choice for Drachten was the right one. The factory offers space, tranquility and opportunities. But Montapanel wouldn't be Montapanel if it stopped there. "We have by no means outgrown ourselves here," says Van Steijn. "On the contrary. We are on the eve of a new phase."
Our company Montapanel Countertops employs only people who have many years of experience in manufacturing and supplying countertops. The proven craftsmanship of the production staff and the years of experience of our sales team form an ideal combination. This combination ensures that the range, pricing and quality are at a high and competitive level [...].
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