Cor and Martin celebrate a total of 102 years at Royal Van der Leun

CEO Martin den Breejen kicks off the festivities with a brief update on the company's status. This is quickly followed by a speech about Martin de Jong, who works as an electrician. "When Martin applied in 1973, there was the oil crisis, car-free Sundays, and the Rolling Stones (already old men) released 'Angie.' And do you know what was on Martin's job application? It stated a desired gross salary of 2 gulden. This shows how much has changed in 50 years."

Martin den Breejen continues, "Martin de Jong occasionally worried about the company, and that is commendable. It shows that Martin is committed to the company and takes care of it. Also a big thanks to Jolanda and your family for your support."

After the speech, a travel voucher and a dinner voucher are presented to Martin de Jong. With a mix of laughter and tears, Martin thanks his colleagues for his 50-year adventure. "I want to kindly thank everyone for the pleasant collaboration. I have enjoyed my 50 years here. Sometimes I may grumble, but I am truly delighted with my anniversary." His words of gratitude are met with enthusiastic applause.

Next, Martin den Breejen addresses Cor Usmany, who has now been with Royal Van der Leun for 52 years and works as a welder. After receiving a travel voucher for his 50-year anniversary, he is now also presented with a dinner voucher.

Then, Mayor Jan de Vries takes the floor. "Becoming 'Royal' is not something that happens easily, and serving for 50 years is equally remarkable. Together, you, Cor and Martin, have contributed 102 years of service to Royal Van der Leun. Sliedrecht ranks 23rd among Dutch towns with successful business operations. This is attributed to various factors, including good leadership. Innovation and products are important, but you, the employees, are the true assets. Success is linked to dedicated employees, and Cor and Martin are two exceptional examples of this dedication. On behalf of the municipality of Sliedrecht, I congratulate you, and we emphasize our congratulations with a beautiful bouquet of flowers."

Finally, there is a surprise for the jubilants and the present colleagues, friends, and family. The gentlemen are asked to pose in front of a large canvas. After the canvas is removed, two marble busts are revealed. "Cor and Martin, my apologies, but you will forever remain in this building," Martin den Breejen announces. "You will even receive a replica to take home." Golden plaques with the names of all jubilants, from 25 to 50 years of service, are affixed to the pole on which the busts are mounted. "But 50 years is so extraordinary that it deserves special attention."