Retirement Henk Somers.

After 31 years as managing director and 20 years as owner of Lareka, Henk Somers is retiring.

Those who are familiar with Henk know that he is always straightforward. He says what he thinks, takes decisions with full conviction and has always had Lareka's best interests at heart, and one thing is certain. Henk put his heart and soul into this company.

Under his leadership, Lareka was transformed from being an overhaul business in the tobacco industry to become a leading manufacturer of packaging machines for artisan chocolate makers. Over the years, Henk has made many changes and taken the necessary risks.

But that is precisely why Lareka is where it is, and why we are so proud of it. Even in difficult times, Henk remained loyal to his people. He made sure that we stayed together as a team and moved forward together.

On 12 December, we toasted Henk and this milestone at his farewell party. It was a wonderful celebration of the end of an era.

At Henk's request, we had spit-roasted local wild boar. See photo