What is Christeyns?
Christeyns stands for premium chemicals, reliable equipment, and flexible, customized service. Its portfolio includes hygiene solutions for professional textile care, food processing & retail, the professional cleaning industry, and the medical and life sciences sectors. Originating from a family-owned business in Ghent, Belgium, Christeyns has transformed over the decades into a major international player. Rooted in local communities, the company really takes time to understand the needs and expectations of those it serves… all while keeping the quality and legacy intact.
Main Benefit: Key Figures and Facts
- Founded in: 1946 in Ghent, Belgium
- Employees: More than 1300 employees worldwide
- Headquarters: Ghent, Belgium
- Turnover: More than 445 million Euros
- Family Ownership: A company under Family Ownership
- Global Reach: Active in more than 50 countries with 44 subsidiaries, 23 production facilities, and 7 research centers
Our Values in Action
At Christeyns, a family of experts gathers together, driven by a passion and deep commitment to continuously improve customers’ operations. The mission is built around 4 core values that blend seamlessly into everyday activities. The value of Family shines through teamwork, where colleagues work together in an open and constructive way, respecting one another and the environment. Expertise is at the heart of the company as technical knowledge is shared generously. Passion for the job, the company, and quality hygiene bonds the group, and there is always a push to achieve Continuous Improvement, embracing strong solutions and constantly challenging established routines… all in a very genuine and heartfelt manner.
A Journey Through History
The beginnings are both humble and inspiring. In 1946, Mr. Jules Roberts Christeyns opened a small soap factory in Ghent and began producing soap and detergents for laundry businesses right from his backyard. Fast-forward to 1976: Albin De Vos, the uncle of the current CEO Alain Bostoen, took over the soap factory—a turning point in its evolution. By 1989, the management passed into the hands of the Bostoen family, marking yet another significant milestone in its history. Then came 1995 when the current management team, including Chairman Paul Bostoen, CEO Alain Bostoen, and COO Jef Wittouck, started looking beyond national borders. A series of takeovers and alliances sparked European expansion with growing influence over territories. Finally, in 2021, Christeyns had already extended its operations across Europe, the US, the Gulf Area, South Africa, and Asia, and the growth momentum continues unabated… clearly showing a legacy built on flexibility and foresight.
Connecting with Christeyns
For those curious about more details or with questions and suggestions, reaching out is straightforward. Whether it’s for more information or simply discussing ideas, the company invites anyone interested to get in touch without hesitation… this open approach has helped in building strong relationships and trust over the years.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- Quality Education (SDG 4) – by fostering continuous learning and sharing in technical expertise.
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9) – through investments in advanced production facilities and research centers.
- Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) – ensuring practices that respect the environment and sustainability.
- Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) – evident in collaborative efforts, strategic takeovers, and alliances across borders.
Additional Insights Into Christeyns’ World
Beyond the impressive figures and the rich history, Christeyns is committed to staying ahead of its time, making true use of its legacy to embrace innovation and meet market needs effectively. The company’s dedication to service and expertise is reflected by the smooth integration of its four core values—Family, Expertise, Passion, and Continuous Improvement—into every project and partnership. This dynamic approach is not just an echo of the past but fuels every step towards a future filled with promise, growth, and meaningful impact. With operations spanning across continents, each step, each venture, and even every small initiative tie back to the cherished family-owned roots that started in a simple backyard soap factory in Ghent.
Additional insights reveal that the company does not lose sight of its original mission while continuously expanding in both market presence and product variety. Its sister companies, such as GOVI engineered chemicals and OSCRETE construction products, show that Christeyns embraces diverse sectors with the same commitment to quality and innovation. There is a noticeable yet subtle touch of casual camaraderie and trust in every interaction, making the whole narrative feel like an engaging conversation—a conversation that spans decades of hard work, strategic decisions, and a deep passion for excellence. This fluid, conversational spirit is a modern echo of the family values that formed the backbone of the company almost 80 years ago… it is an inspiring benchmark for success and adaptability.
