Our History

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Early beginnings

The story of Broekema begins in 1953 when technical engineer Hamminga invented a conveyor belt that lasted longer than any existing solution. His rod conveyor belt innovation quickly gained attention in the agricultural sector, offering a durable and efficient alternative to traditional methods. Hamminga’s invention set a new standard for conveyor belts and laid the foundation for future advancements in the industry.

EA Broekema BV

In 1965, Ernst August Broekema acquired Hammenga’s company, recognizing the potential in the rod conveyor belt. With his experience in agricultural machinery, Broekema expanded the business, focusing on meeting the specific needs of the agricultural sector. Starting with a small team, the company grew by consistently delivering reliable conveyor solutions. This commitment to quality and customer satisfaction drove its expansion, necessitating larger production facilities and investments in new technologies and product range.

Expanding Horizons

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Broekema began its international expansion, focusing on North America. By 1989, Broekema Beltway USA, Inc. was established, transitioning from local agents to a direct market presence. This led to the opening of a manufacturing plant in Hinckley, Minnesota, which later expanded to a larger facility in Pine City in 2001. Continuing its growth, Broekema established a new facility in Woodland, California, in 2011, further strengthening its foothold in North America. 

Technological Advancement and Modernization

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Broekema saw significant growth and transformation. Acquired by Arnold Jäger Holding in 1996, the company gained new resources and opportunities for innovation. Relocating to a state-of-the-art facility at the Zwaaikom in 2000 (Veendam, NL) allowed the company to meet contemporary standards and accommodate expanding operations. The new facility, equipped with advanced technology, improved efficiency and production capabilities. By the early 2000s, Broekema had already established itself as a global leader in conveyor belt technology, serving various industries.

Current Operations

Broekema continues to be a key player in the conveyor belt industry, dedicated to innovation and customer satisfaction. We export to over 40 countries, serving diverse industries, including agriculture and processing. Our products are used by top brands for harvesting potatoes, sugar beets, tomatoes, carrots, nuts, olives, and more. With a workforce of about 160 employees in Veendam and additional teams in the USA, we develop and produce high-quality conveyor belts designed to meet the evolving needs of our clients. We maintain strong relationships with OEMs worldwide, constantly advancing our technology to ensure optimal performance and reliability in every product we deliver.

Investing in People and Innovation

Our success comes from the dedication and creativity of our employees. We prioritize research and development to keep improving our products and processes. This focus helps us stay at the forefront of the industry, offering advanced solutions to our customers worldwide. The innovative mindset of our team has made Broekema a leader in conveyor belts

Looking to the Future

As the global population grows, the demand for efficient agricultural solutions will rise. Broekema is committed to developing new applications and expanding our global reach. We aim to grow steadily, meeting the changing needs of our customers and industry. Our strategy focuses on sustainable growth, maintaining leadership in current markets while exploring new opportunities worldwide.

Interested in joining the Broekema team?

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