History
2025 – Automatic packing system in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
VGT Zeeuws-Vlaanderen has invested in a fully automatic packing system. This advanced installation automates the entire process of sorting, packaging, and palletizing bell peppers. The new system increases efficiency, improves product consistency, and allows the company to respond more flexibly to customer requirements.
2024 – UF installations on both locations
Ultrafiltration (UF) systems are installed at both the Rijkevorsel and Westdorpe locations. These installations add an additional purification step in the water treatment process, ensuring even higher water quality and enabling more sustainable water reuse within the greenhouses.
2021 – New energy screens
VGT invests in the latest generation of energy screens in both Rijkevorsel and Westdorpe. These high-performance screens significantly reduce heat loss during colder periods and help optimize the greenhouse climate, resulting in lower energy consumption and improved sustainability.
2020 – Second generation joins the company
The second generation of the founding families joins the family business. This step ensures continuity while bringing new ideas and perspectives to further develop and modernize the company.
2019 – Solar panels in Westdorpe
VGT Zeeuws-Vlaanderen installs approximately 1,500 solar panels on the roof of the warehouse. The installation contributes to the company's renewable energy production and reduces its environmental footprint.
2017 – New CHP units in Rijkevorsel
The existing combined heat and power (CHP) units in Rijkevorsel are replaced with newer, more efficient models. This investment increases energy efficiency by approximately 3 to 4 percent while ensuring a reliable supply of heat, electricity, and CO₂ for the greenhouse cultivation.
2016 – Extra greenhouses in Westdorpe
In the second phase of the Westdorpe project, VGT Zeeuws-Vlaanderen expands with an additional 15 hectares of greenhouses. This expansion brings the total greenhouse area at the Westdorpe site to 30 hectares.
2014 – Establishment of VGT Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
VGT expands internationally with a new location in Westdorpe, in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen (the Netherlands). The new site starts with 15 hectares of greenhouses and marks an important step in the company's growth strategy.
2011 – Solar panels in Rijkevorsel
VGT Rijkevorsel invests in 1,100 solar panels, further strengthening its commitment to sustainable energy use and reducing dependence on external electricity sources.
2007 – New CHP units in Rijkevorsel
VGT Rijkevorsel installs a second and third combined heat and power (CHP) unit. These installations allow the company to produce its own heat, electricity, and CO₂, improving energy efficiency and supporting optimal crop growth.
2006 – Additional greenhouses in Rijkevorsel
In a second expansion phase, VGT increases its greenhouse area in Rijkevorsel by 8 hectares, allowing the company to scale up production and strengthen its market position.
2004 – First combined heat and power (CHP) unit
VGT Rijkevorsel invests in its first combined heat and power (CHP) unit. This technology enables the company to produce electricity and heat simultaneously while also supplying CO₂ to the crops.
2003 – Establishment of VGT Rijkevorsel
Four growers from the Neyens and Wuyts families join forces and establish VGT (Verenigde Groentetuinders). In the first phase, 7 hectares of greenhouses and a central packing facility are built, forming the foundation of the company.