Limburg-based Vansichen Linear Technology was named SME of the Year 2024 at the UNIZO Topseminar in Antwerp. The independent jury praised the Hasselt family business for its innovative strategy, financial robustness and sustainable vision with a focus on the manufacturing industry.
General manager Pieter Vansichen and his brother Thomas Vansichen (HR, Finance & Marketing) accepted the award with a big smile. “It is a huge honour for us and the entire team to win this title. We have achieved fantastic internationalisation and product innovation growth in recent years. The award provides extra motivation to push forward with the momentum,” says Pieter. The family business, with its specialisation in linear systems and robottracks, follows in the footsteps of 3Motion (winner 2023) and Deprez (winner 2022).
Leadership in the manufacturing industry
Pieter continues: “The award underlines the power of innovation and the importance of production in Flanders. We aim to use our innovation and excellent international growth potential to undertake a pioneering role in the competitive manufacturing industry.”
Jury chairman Pieter Vandekerkhof (Uhasselt professor) confirms: “Vansichen demonstrated their leadership in the manufacturing industry with their forward-looking business plan, which extends to 2030 and focuses on innovation and sustainability. Their modern work culture and transition to second generation leadership will ensure continuity and growth.”
Independent jury
An independent professional jury decides who wins SME of the Year, not the public. “This made it particularly interesting for us because the award does not involve a popularity contest; the selection process is serious and objective,” Thomas explains.
The jury praised Vansichen for their financial robustness, strategic management based on figures and market insights, as well as their professional HR policy that promotes a positive working environment. The high employee satisfaction, diverse product range, and strategic customer distribution underline their sustainable success.
The award ceremony took place during the UNIZO Top Seminar in the Koningin Elisabethzaal [Queen Elizabeth Hall] in Antwerp. Vansichen competed against four other provincial winners for the national title: De Sutter Naturally from Flemish Brabant and Brussels, E-Demonstrations from Antwerp, Locquet from East Flanders and Hanssens Telecom from West Flanders. These companies certainly provided formidable competition, and thankfully Hasselt-based Vansichen Linear Technology was able to take the award home.
