Ridderkerk – Last Saturday, Transportbedrijf G. van der Heijden & Zn. hosted its first Family Day in this new format, bringing together more than 120 colleagues, partners, children, parents and grandparents for an afternoon of fun, great food and meaningful connections.
As a family-owned company, Van der Heijden believes that strong relationships extend beyond the workplace. Family Day offered employees the opportunity to introduce the people behind their daily work, creating an informal atmosphere where colleagues and their families could get to know one another.
“We are a family business, and family is at the heart of everything we do. Days like these allow us to get to know not only our colleagues, but also their partners, children and parents. That strengthens the bond within our company,” says Bert van der Heijden, Managing Director.
Bringing a growing organisation together
This year’s Family Day was particularly special following the recent acquisitions of HB Sluimers Transporten and GBI Transport. For the first time, colleagues from both companies and their families joined the event, providing an ideal opportunity for everyone to meet outside the working environment.
Reflecting on the company’s recent growth, Bert van der Heijden said:
“A lot has changed within our organisation over a relatively short period. I am incredibly proud of the way everyone has embraced these changes. Of course, there are challenges along the way, but together we continue to move forward as one team.”
Organised by the staff association
The event was organised by the company’s staff association, consisting of Aad, Kees, Ed and Jeff van der Heijden. Preparations were spread over approximately seven months, with careful attention given to every detail—from weather contingency plans and shaded seating areas to ensuring there was plenty of food and refreshments for everyone.
“We wanted to create an opportunity to get to know the people behind our colleagues,” explains Jeff van der Heijden. “For me, a Family Day is all about having fun together, sharing laughs and creating lasting memories.”
Fun for all ages
There was something for everyone to enjoy. Younger visitors spent hours on the bouncy castle, while the rodeo bull quickly became the day’s biggest attraction for both children and adults. Giant Jenga and several reaction games added even more entertainment throughout the afternoon.
Guests also enjoyed a wide variety of food, including freshly baked pancakes, French fries and delicious spit-roasted chicken.
“The food exceeded everyone’s expectations. There was more than enough for everybody, and several colleagues even took some chicken home to enjoy the next day,” Jeff recalls.
Live music added to the relaxed atmosphere throughout the afternoon. René Muller entertained the guests, while Aad den Otter, one of Van der Heijden’s drivers, surprised everyone by joining him on stage for several songs, much to the delight of those present.
Recognising dedication
The Family Day also provided an opportunity to recognise several special moments. Peter Vermeulen was honoured following his retirement. As there had not been a suitable occasion to celebrate this earlier in the year, colleagues, friends and family gathered to thank him for his years of dedication.
In addition, Henk and Carolien from HB Sluimers Transporten received flowers as a token of appreciation for the smooth transition and the excellent cooperation following the acquisition.
A day to remember
For Jeff, one particular moment captured the spirit of the day.
“Around four o’clock I looked around and saw the sun shining, René performing, everyone enjoying a drink and simply having a great time together. That’s when I knew the day had been a success.”
Another unforgettable moment came when families spontaneously started dancing together.
“A beautiful song was playing, and suddenly fathers were dancing with their daughters while couples joined each other on the dance floor. Those are exactly the moments you hope to create.”
Looking ahead to 100 years of Van der Heijden
The success of the first Family Day in this new format has laid the foundation for similar events in the future. While such a large-scale Family Day may not take place every year, Van der Heijden remains committed to bringing colleagues and their families together outside the workplace.
With the company’s 100th anniversary approaching in 2027, the future looks bright.
As Jeff concludes:
“Thank you all for being part of our family. Next year we celebrate 100 years of Van der Heijden, and we could never have achieved this milestone without our colleagues and their families.”
