Broekman Logistics Insights 45 Years of Broekman Logistics in Born: From Temp to General Manager

45 Years of Broekman Logistics in Born: From Temp to General Manager

News

This year marks the 45th anniversary of Broekman Logistics Limburg in Born — a milestone not just for the organisation, but for those who’ve helped shape it. One such person is General Manager Collin Baird, who began his journey with Broekman in 1999. We sat down with him to reflect on the company’s evolution and his own path within it.

“I joined Broekman Logistics in Born as a temp in 1999,” Collin recalls. “My first tasks were simple: once vehicles were unloaded, I checked for damage, noted the chassis number, and drove them to their designated locations.” At that time, Broekman Logistics was fully focused on automotive logistics.

It was a tight-knit, hands-on organisation. “Back then, we were a small, family-style team that would do whatever it took to fulfil customer requests — no matter how complex,” he says. “The motto was basically: say yes first, then figure out how to make it happen.”

Transitioning into a full-service logistics provider

In this interview: Collin Baird

Over the years, Collin witnessed the transformation of Broekman Logistics from a niche automotive handler into a full-fledged logistics service provider. “That family spirit never left — even as we grew,” he explains. “You can still feel it today at our new site in Weert, where many of our colleagues from Born have now relocated.”

Naturally, such a transformation brought growing pains. “Some people were more comfortable in a small, close-knit setting and had to adjust to a more corporate environment,” he says. “But I believe Broekman has struck the right balance. The corporate side provides the structure and professionalism we need, while the family culture keeps us flexible and deeply involved. That mix really sets us apart in the logistics sector.”

The strength of a mid-sized organisation

Broekman Logistics Limburg 45 Years

Positioned as an industry specialist in the machinery sector, Broekman Logistics offers end-to-end supply chain solutions tailored to each customer’s needs. “We operate in a market with a lot of big players,” says Collin. “Our edge lies in offering agile, customised, and value-added logistics services. We’re not trying to be everything to everyone — we focus on what we do best, and that’s how we continue to grow.”

He highlights Broekman Logistics’ ability to provide both scalability and a personal touch. “We’re big enough to manage large-scale projects, but still compact enough to offer one-on-one service. That’s where we really excel.”

A personal journey of growth

For Collin, the journey from temp to General Manager has been a deeply rewarding one. “I started on the ground floor and now lead the Weert warehouse site — that says something about the company, and also about personal growth,” he reflects. “Broekman gives people the space to develop and climb the ladder.”

It’s not just about business success — it’s about building something meaningful. “It’s a privilege to be part of an organisation that doesn’t just grow in scale, but grows its people along the way. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and excited for what lies ahead.”

45 Years of Broekman Logistics in Born: From Temp to General Manager

News

Transitioning into a full-service logistics provider

In this interview: Collin Baird

The strength of a mid-sized organisation

Broekman Logistics Limburg 45 Years

A personal journey of growth

Read more articles in this festive series below

Celebrating 45 Years: What binds our colleagues to Broekman Logistics is the familial culture

Celebrating 45 Years of Long-lasting Relationships with Customers and Employees

Celebrating 45 Years of Logistics Excellence at Broekman Logistics Limburg in Born!

Do you want to know more about Broekman Logistics Limburg in Born? Contact our General Manager Ralph Adams

Ralph Adams

General Manager