Loders Croklaan invests in sustainable growth

Loders Croklaan has commissioned a new refinery, based in Wormerveer, The Netherlands. The asset is purpose built to further increase product quality with lower environmental impact, contributing to both growth and sustainability targets.

The refinery is dedicated to the company’s specialty fat products which predominantly go to the confectionery industry. Both coating fats (such as Coberine cocoa butter equivalents) and filling fats (for example the Creamelts) will be produced.

Paul Koekoek, production director of Europe, says, “We are proud to have completed this project within such a short time frame. Constructing the new refinery enabled us to redesign part of the production site and further optimise the infrastructure. This all contributes to efficient production at the highest possible quality.”

Sustainability is an important innovation driver, and one that this new refinery will deliver. Hidde van Kersen, sustainability director and board member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), states, “We approach sustainability from a broad perspective. It is not only about the sourcing of sustainable palm oil, but also about investing in facilities that have the lowest possible impact on the environment. The new facility uses less energy and cooling water, while reducing losses of precious raw materials. These factors all contribute to a smaller environmental footprint of the products we deliver to our customers, who also have ambitious sustainability targets.”

Patrick Cobussen, business unit manager of the Specialty Fats division, concludes, “By making investments in these economically challenging times, Loders Croklaan shows it is confident that European growth will return and affirms its position as a leader in the oils & fats industry.”