A Festive Day for Hoopman Machines

Double Celebration at Hoopman Machines: Birthday Party for Jan Willem Hoopman and Book Presentation by Henk Korten

Thursday afternoon, April 17, 2025, was all about celebration and togetherness at Hoopman Machines. The entire team surprised Jan Willem Hoopman with a birthday lunch. Jan Willem reached retirement age this past weekend, but fortunately, he will remain actively involved in the company. His knowledge, experience, and energy are still of great value.

The afternoon began with a surprise for Jan Willem, after which everyone hopped on their bikes and headed to Bocholt, just across the border. At Café Gut Heidefeld, colleagues enjoyed a cozy lunch, sharing many memories and anecdotes about—and with—Jan Willem. The celebration continued with a guided tour at Brennerei Geuting, where the group raised a toast to many more happy and healthy years for Jan Willem.

Book Presentation: ‘Eenvoud is het kenmerk van het ware’ (Simplicity is the Hallmark of the True)
During the lunch, another special milestone was celebrated: the presentation of the book “Eenvoud is het kenmerk van het ware” by Henk Korten. Henk knows the company like no one else. He began his career as the youngest employee at Hoopman Machines and eventually became the CEO of Holaras. In the book, written in Dutch, he looks back on a pivotal period in the company’s now more than 110-year history.

With personal stories, unique insights, and beautiful illustrations, Henk writes about the transformation from a blacksmith into an innovative family business. From innovative agricultural machines to cherished family stories, the book is a tribute to craftsmanship, pioneering spirit, and the power of collaboration.

The book will soon be available through the webshop at www.holaras.com. For those who can’t wait: send a message to info@hoopman-equipment.nl

Jan Willem Hoopman, Julia Hoopman and Henk Korten

A day full of memories, pride, and looking ahead, just as you would expect from Hoopman Machines.