Katoen Natie’s beginnings date back to 1854. Active in cotton and raw material management, the group has evolved to serve sectors such as consumer goods, petrochemicals, specialty chemicals, as well as waste management and art management. “Our global presence spans five continents, employing over 17,000 people. We pride ourselves on creating tailor-made solutions that add value to our customers’ supply chains.” says Filip Callens, Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Katoen Natie.
What distinguishes the group is the real estate it fully owns, its high-value activities, and its commitment to the circular economy, as the Deputy Chief Financial Officer emphasizes. “We continuously invest in state-of-the-art facilities and ICT systems, ensuring we deliver efficient and cost-effective solutions. Our Business Unit Art, for example, focuses on the storage, transport, and management of art collections, showcasing our versatility and dedication to excellence.”
A growing company
Committed to growth and innovation, Katoen Natie is multiplying international projects. The establishment of a waste management facility in Rivenhall, England, or the expansion of the Montevideo terminal in Uruguay are testaments to this commitment. To create a safe recycling process for end-of-life plastics, the group is also a pioneer of the Plastic2Chemicals project. “These initiatives not only drive our growth but also contribute to a more sustainable future.”
However, Katoen Natie faces challenges such as obtaining permits and recruiting and training qualified employees. Challenges it says it is ready to tackle with its team to continue meeting and exceeding customer expectations.
Relying on a financial partner
To support this growth, Katoen Natie has been able to count on the support of BIL, committed to supporting businesses in Luxembourg and the Greater Region. “Their financial solutions have been instrumental in helping us achieve our international expansion goals, offering us a wide array of products and services that can notably benefit our company,” explains Filip Callens. Indeed, BIL is actively engaged in partnerships that promote sustainable growth. As Paul-Laurent Philippart, Senior Corporate Advisor, explains, “We’ve tailored a range of services not only in credit financing but also asset services, market solutions and corporate finance services on which the group can rely on to support their expansive needs. ”
More recently, BIL has made available a refinancing solution to support the “Waste-to-Energy” activity. For BIL, it is primarily about aligning with the group’s ambitions and strengthening their shared commitment to a sustainable future. “It’s partnerships like these that highlight our dedication to creating lasting value. Katoen Natie is a reliable partner with a strong track record, rich history and a real commitment to excellence and innovation. Together, we’ve built a partnership that’s truly beneficial for both sides, helping us grow and succeed.”
A view shared by Filip Callens: “Looking ahead, we see a bright future with BIL as a reliable partner. Their wide array of products and services, from financing beyond capital expenditure to asset services and corporate finance, will continue to support our key growth investments. With BIL’s ongoing support, we are confident in our ability to achieve further development and success, driving innovation and sustainability in our industry.”
To learn more:
Banque Internationale à Luxembourg
Philippart Paul-Laurent
bil_cib_corporates@bil.com
+352 4590 3493
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