Visit of the Mayor of Vlaardingen Frederik Zevenbergen

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Ed Gennissen, Founder/CEO, walked him through what Driving Change is really about.

Quoting Mr. Zevenbergen:

“The story begins in 1987. Founder Ed Gennissen started making insect screens himself in the basement of his home in Kinderdijk. At a caravan trade show, he had noticed that there were hardly any good solutions available for caravans and motorhomes. So he decided to make one himself. One thing led to another.

After expanding through Ridderkerk and Alblasserdam, the company continued to grow and eventually moved to Vlaardingen. Today, the company operates from Vlaardingen in dozens of countries. Proud founder Ed, together with his son Coen Gennissen and supply chain manager Irene Zhu, took me through the company’s growth journey. Together with their colleagues, they are continuing to build an international family business with innovation in its DNA. 🛠️

And don’t think it stopped with insect screens. Today, the Driving Change Group includes Horrex, InnoSlide and ClikeBikes. Windows, blackout solutions and smart systems for motorhomes and caravans. Compact bicycles. Extendable solutions that suddenly create much more living space. Their ambition reflects that hands-on mentality: to develop and launch at least one new innovation every year. I saw that mindset everywhere during my visit. Not only in the products, but also in the way people think. What used to be a simple advertising brochure has evolved into an experience where you can put on a VR headset and virtually walk through a fully furnished motorhome.

What impressed me most was the combination of craftsmanship, optimism, curiosity and drive. There is always that question: can it be done smarter, better or differently? From a basement in Kinderdijk to an international company with the Gemeente Vlaardingen as its home base. That is something we can be proud of.”

We thank the Mayor for his interest and the continuing great partnership between local businesses and the municipality. A special thanks to Sandra van der Padt for organizing the meeting.