Gamechangerz in Food: An agile strategy for success

On Feb. 6, 2025, the Gwynt Strategy Dinner took place. This Gamechangerz in Food event, offered new insights, inspiration and a fresh outside perspective. The focus was on developing an agile strategy under dynamic market conditions. At the beautiful location of Huis Oudegein, Max van Ballegooijen kicked off the event with the seven steps necessary to create an agile and targeted strategy. This was followed by two presentations by Jurgen van Krevel of Bieze Food Group and Jan Willem Hilbron of Albron Hutten on their approach, learnings and results.

The importance of an agile and flexible strategy under dynamic market conditions:

Strategy formation is an ongoing process that deserves more attention, especially in today’s market conditions. Traditional thinking in terms of Mission > Vision > Strategy does not fit the current market as well. Disruptive shocks such as disruptions in the value chain, various wars and the geopolitical climate are making strategic goals more and more difficult to achieve. For this reason, a good, flexible strategic plan is essential. This strategic plan with development themes should be reassessed at least annually based on market conditions. Is the strategic plan still in line with practice? Or do we need to make timely adjustments?
The business plan should be reviewed at least every six months and includes the main strategic development themes. Here, proactive rather than reactive action is very important. Creating sufficient support and actual execution determine ultimate success.

Presentation: Bieze food group

Bieze has embarked on the transformation to a digital platform. The key factors for success are innovation, connection and sharing experiences. From a traditional production company, Bieze is evolving into a service partner for Food Service & Retail. The Netherlands is serving as a test case for this strategy, in which sustainability, digitalization and collaboration are central. The company structure has changed completely and the focus is now on working together rather than collaborating

Presentation: Albron Hutten

Albron Hutten has a clear vision for the future: grow to avoid being eaten. As part of this vision, Hutten was recently acquired and the integration is underway. CEO Jan Willem Hilbron emphasizes the importance of a clear long-term vision, clear communication and mobilizing energy. Albron Hutten aims to provide 250,000 people with daily meals and achieve sales of 600 million euros. An active M&A strategy is necessary to stay afloat.

Conclusion

Strategy formation is an ongoing process that deserves more attention. Support and execution determine success, and strategic agility is essential. The event offered valuable insights and inspiration, as well as concrete steps and strategies to promote agility and success. The case studies of Bieze Food Group and Albron Hutten provided practical examples of how companies can transform and grow in a dynamic market. Lessons from the CEOs emphasized the importance of collaboration, flexibility and a clear vision.

Need help putting a strategy in place for your business? Gwynt helps companies to be and stay successful together. Feel free to contact us if you want to know more about this topic.