80 Years of Christeyns: Looking Back and Moving Forward with CEO Alain Bostoen

To mark Christeyns’ 80th anniversary, we interviewed our CEO about his journey with the company, the decisions that have shaped its direction, and the principles that still guide us today. We also explored how Christeyns is preparing for the future in an ever-changing world.

What does the 80th anniversary mean to you personally?

Alain Bostoen: “For me, it is part of a long journey rather than a final destination. That said, 80 years is an important milestone and the right moment to pause and reflect on what the company has achieved. It is an opportunity to look back, but even more so to look ahead.”

Do you remember your first day at Christeyns?

“Not exactly. When I officially started in August 1994, Christeyns already felt familiar. I had spent time there as a student, and my father had taken over the company a few years earlier. It felt like a natural progression rather than a new beginning.

.What I do remember is the atmosphere. Christeyns was smaller and more local, and people knew each other well. Starting work as the owner’s son also meant my experience was different from that of most new employees.

I was given time to learn the business thoroughly – from the ground up – starting with production and purchasing, then working with customers. This wide-ranging introduction helped me develop a deep understanding of the company and later influenced how I introduced my own children to the business.”

How important is it to you that Christeyns remains a family business?

“It matters immensely. Being a family business shapes how we think and act. We prioritise the long term and make decisions that go beyond short-term results.

This approach enables us to continue investing when it is sensible and to build something enduring. Long-term vision remains a key strength of a family-owned business.”

Alongside ‘family’, we have three other core values. How do these help guide the company through a rapidly changing world?

“Continuous improvement is vital. It involves questioning our methods and seeking better ways of doing things. This mindset helps us adapt as the world evolves.

Expertise is equally important. By understanding how our customers operate and how their needs develop, we can create solutions to support them. Innovation isn’t limited to the lab; it occurs through close engagement with the field.

Data also assumes an increasingly important role. It offers opportunities, but only if utilised effectively. By combining insight, expertise, and continuous improvement, we can respond more effectively to customer needs, both now and in the future.”

What’s one of the most significant decisions you’ve made in your career as CEO?

“One key decision was to concentrate Christeyns entirely on business-to-business activities. When I began, the group was divided into several sectors, including consumer products and soap manufacturing, alongside industrial applications.

We decided to separate these activities and give each business its own direction while retaining our shareholding. This enabled Christeyns to focus clearly on industrial B2B solutions.

That focus provided us with a clear strategy and helped shape the company we are today. It continues to guide our growth.”

Sustainability has been embedded in the company’s DNA from the outset. How has this approach influenced the company’s operations and future planning?

“For us, sustainability means working in a manner that endures. It involves respecting people, partners, and the environment, as well as forging long-term relationships.

This philosophy has always existed, even if we discuss it more openly today. We steer clear of short-term decisions and unnecessary risks that could weaken the company over time.

Sustainability also involves continuous improvement. You must keep learning and adapting, without repeatedly reinventing the wheel. That is how a company remains resilient over the long term.”

What lies ahead for Christeyns?

“I don’t have a crystal ball, but I know there is still plenty of room to improve and grow. Our market share remains small, which means many opportunities lie ahead.

We operate in healthcare, hospitality, and the food industries. All of these sectors will stay vital. As long as people eat, travel, and receive care, these markets will remain relevant.

This provides us with a strong foundation to develop from. Instead of altering our direction drastically, we will proceed gradually and bolster our position.”

Is there a message you would like to share with employees, customers, or partners on the occasion of the 80th anniversary?

“I want to thank our employees. Their daily work, dedication, and commitment make all the difference.

Our aim is to remain relevant in the years to come – for our people, by providing a place where they can develop; for our customers, by delivering solutions that offer genuine value. With that mindset, we look forward to continuing this journey together.”