Lekstroom Transport Joins Marine People Group of Companies

After a successful 126-year history, the third generation of Lekstroom Transport BV from Lekkerkerk, the Netherlands, has decided to secure the future of the company by joining HEBO and Bonn & Mees to become part of Marine People.

The company founded in 1898 by Willem Daniel Eerland Snr. has been run by successive generations, son Jan, and for the past 40 years grandson Pieter with his wife Netty. It has become a household name in inland navigation for complex transports on European inland waterways.

Pieter Eerland says, “Of course, in such a process, it’s important to agree on financial terms, but for us, it was also crucial that Lekstroom Transport BV remains in its current form.” After discussions with various interested parties, the choice fell on Marine People with the official acquisition taking effect as from Monday, September 23.

At Marine People, Lekstroom Transport BV will be part of the group that also includes HEBO Maritiemservice and Bonn & Mees. The company will retain its name and will operate independently within the group, under the leadership of a new director. Pieter adds, “It also helped that we have known HEBO Maritiemservice as a reliable competitor for many years. That builds trust.”

Marius Punt, CEO of Marine People, is pleased with the addition of Lekstroom Transport BV to the Marine People group. “Lekstroom Transport BV has a great fleet of push boats and barges. Their operations perfectly align with ours. Moreover, the business practices, culture, and work ethic of our companies are closely aligned.”

Marine People is the name of the group that HEBO Maritiemservice and Bonn & Mees have been part of since July 2023. Since May of this year, the group has been 100% owned by the families of the founders of HEBO and Bonn & Mees. Through acquisitions and mergers like this one, Marine People aims to grow further and maintain the best in the market.

Marius states, “With the acquisition of Lekstroom Transport BV, the continuity of its services—and the associated knowledge and experience—are guaranteed. Our customers benefit from a broader offering, while existing customers can rely on the service they are accustomed to. This makes Lekstroom Transport BV a fantastic addition to our ‘family!”

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