Nemag: 100 years of passion for performance

This year, Nemag, a renowned international expert in the design and construction of four-rope mechanical grabs and rope connection systems, celebrates its 100th anniversary. “Our drive to keep improving is deeply embedded in our DNA.”

 

“Together with our customers, we strive to improve their bulk handling a little more each day.” This is, in a nutshell, what sets Nemag apart, says Martine Dekker-Grootveld, co-owner and account manager at the Netherlands-based leading designer and manufacturer of the world’s most efficient dry bulk grabs. “We always ask ourselves: how can we do better?”

 

This attitude is emblematic of Nemag, which is also known for its rope pear sockets and quick release links, providing the fastest and safest rope connection systems. The 100-year-old family business from Zierikzee, a town in Zeeland near the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp, is recognized not only for its high-quality standards but also for its warm, long-lasting customer relationships. “We continuously evaluate customer feedback and experiences,” says Dekker-Grootveld. “This helps us better understand how to further improve the performance of our grabs.” The import ance of this cannot be overstated. “With the right grab, you can increase efficiency, becoming more productive at lower costs.”

 

The drive to enhance performance is exemplified by the collaboration with SMT Shipping (see ‘From challenge to conquest: SMT Shipping’s journey to a 25% productivity boost using the NemaX grab’ on p15 of this issue). It is also evident in partnerships with research institutions and universities. Long-term studies involving research and testing in both laboratories and the field have been providing valuable knowledge for Nemag’s own products, as well as for existing and new customers. Ever more often, Nemag is regarded as a knowledge center, offering advice on streamlining logistics processes.

 

Niels de Vries, who graduated from the renowned Delft University of Technology with simulation models on the interaction between cranes and grabs, is proud of the mutual collaboration. “The lead time from idea to practice is really short here,” he says. “We can quickly see the tangible result of creativity.”

 

According to de Vries, this is because the office and factory hall have traditionally been near to each other. In recent years, when a new ultra-modern office was built for Nemag, the architect ensured that the design encourages seamless collaboration between colleagues, fostering a strong team spirit. “Contact between office and production is very close,” Dekker-Grootveld says, “so as a team, we can respond and adapt very quickly.”

 

 

 

Much has changed since Abraham Grootveld laid the foundation in 1924 for the international company that Nemag is today. Initially, he repaired everything from tools to stoves. Due to the proximity of the port of Rotterdam, he focused more on machine construction. While repairing grabs, ‘Bram’ noticed inefficiencies, so he started to tinker and see how grabs could offer a better balance between weight and grabbing capacity — work that he would continue to refine.

 

Since those early years, transport ation has not stood still. However, Nemag’s pursuit of continuous improvement in dry bulk handling remains unchanged. The team maintains close contact with terminals and crane builders worldwide to provide tailored solutions for their specific needs.

 

Says Dekker-Grootveld, a grand daughter of the founder: “Nemag has come a long way by always looking ahead. We feel an obligation to respond to new challenges in our field.” Now, as the modern family business is led by the third generation, the focus is still on the future. “Our drive to keep improving,” she knows, “is deeply embedded in our DNA.”