A conversation with Gerwin Kok: a glimpse behind the scenes at BÜFA-Care

Can you share how you started working at BÜFA-Care?

Of course! Almost 25 years ago, I started working in order processing at Vivochem through the staffing agency Randstad. After a few years, I advanced to the head of inside sales position. During this time, I completed the NIMA A and NIMA B courses in the evenings. NIMA A is focused on account management, while NIMA B focuses on sales management. I also completed a course in Higher Management at Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Hengelo. Eventually, I took on managing BÜFA-Care as the department expanded, creating a need for more structure that someone familiar with our organisation could provide. This led me to take on the sales manager role for the BÜFA-Care department.

You have moved up within Vivochem to a leadership position at BÜFA-Care. What inspired you to take that step?

I previously worked in the chemicals division at Vivochem, where we often encountered customers who selected suppliers primarily based on price, as there wasn't much differentiation in the products. I sought a greater challenge and wanted to deepen my expertise in our products. At BÜFA-Care, I found that depth because we don't just sell detergents; we provide a comprehensive washing process. For instance, we supply dosing systems and even handle the programming for washing machines and tunnel washers. This allows us to support our customers to the smallest details; ultimately, we offer clean laundry. When BÜFA-Care began to grow and needed a sales manager, I was asked to take on that role. Overseeing the complete service provided me with the challenge I was looking for.

What does your role as Sales Manager entail?

I'm our department's first point of contact, and my role extends beyond just sales. For instance, I coordinate with the party that handles our maintenance and am involved in internal matters like quality, logistics, order processing, and safety. I'm also the go-to person for questions from Vivochem or our customers. On top of that,  I also maintain my own customer contacts and maintain contacts with various machine suppliers and other key players in our market.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I really enjoy interacting with customers and supporting them. My favourite part of the job is visiting both existing and potential clients. Understanding their needs and demonstrating the value of our products and services is very rewarding. Our department is dedicated to building long-term relationships and delivering excellent service.

Looking at the future of BÜFA-Care, what do you think will change in the next five years?

The BÜFA-Care department has been steadily growing for years, and we're already ahead of our targets this year. Our focus is shifting towards larger laundries as the market becomes more centralised. This change is partly driven by changing clothing habits; for example, wearing a suit and tie to work is becoming less common. Additionally, platforms like Vinted are emerging, highlighting shifts in consumer behaviour. Overall, the quality of textiles is declining, which in turn is reducing the demand for dry cleaning services. Consequently, smaller dry cleaners located in shopping areas are facing challenges. Large dry cleaners are increasingly taking over more work, and we will respond to this shift. We will also focus more on the larger industrial laundries.

Finally, can you tell us what working at Vivochem and within the BÜFA Group is like?

I've been working at Vivochem for almost 25 years now. I'm 45, so Vivochem was one of my first employers. I've found that the company invests in employees willing to invest in themselves. There are plenty of opportunities for personal development and training. If you prove yourself, there are chances for advancement if that's what you aim for. At the same time, it is perfectly fine if you prefer to stay in your current role. I believe Vivochem is a great place to work, and many of my colleagues have been here for years.