Expansion of Uitgekookt’s facility fits like a ‘new suit’

In 2023-2024, Uitgekookt’s facility in IJsselmuiden underwent expansion and renovation with growth in mind. It wasn’t a standard construction project but a complex 3D puzzle focusing on people, products, processes, sustainability, and ergonomics.

In the food industry, companies are constantly in motion. New products, (production) processes, changing regulations, and customer demands often lead to a building being used differently than initially planned. When this happens, expansion becomes necessary. This was the case for family-owned business Uitgekookt in IJsselmuiden, now led by the sixth generation, Johan van Marle. Over more than a century, Uitgekookt evolved from a vegetable shop into an innovative meal supplier. With 350 employees, the company delivers freshly cooked meals directly from its production facility to consumers daily. Demand continues to grow.

Focus on people

In 2018, a new production facility and office were completed in IJsselmuiden. Johan explains: “Our company was growing, and we realized we’d reach maximum production capacity by 2024. We wouldn’t be able to achieve our goal of quadrupling our market share in the Netherlands without expanding. That’s why we started planning in 2022, with a high-quality end product and ergonomics as our priorities. We want to ensure continuity for our customers and keep our promises. That’s only possible if you take good care of your people.”

Form left to right: Gerard Scherff, Johan van Marle and Gert de Vries

For the expansion plans, Johan once again enlisted architect Gert de Vries, now working at RBK. “He has 40 years of construction experience, 20 of which are in the food industry. Gert knows exactly what regulations you need to comply with and how to optimally integrate new and existing structures.”

Gert: “I was already familiar with the company, the building, and the production lines. The question was what was possible in terms of expansion. I created a ‘3D puzzle’ to seamlessly connect the new construction to the existing production facility, considering zoning requirements, Johan’s wishes, functionality, and logistical routes. A preferred design variant was chosen from several sketches.” The expansion has since been completed and integrated into the existing facility—like a ‘new suit.’

Flexibility required

“There were definitely challenges during construction,” says Gert. “You need to be flexible to implement changes without disrupting the puzzle. My role was to safeguard the original goals.” For the facades, interior walls, ceilings, and doors of the new facility, Gert brought in Gerard Scherff, commercial director at K.I.M. Nederland. He continues: “What makes this project unique is the combination of maximum new construction, renovation, and rebuilding. Our company specializes in creating climate-controlled spaces. For Uitgekookt’s production facility, we installed high-quality Quadcore insulation panels that combine optimal insulation with fire safety. While we primarily work on new construction, renovation is becoming increasingly important in the Netherlands due to limited construction opportunities. Renovations often have to take place during the night, as production can’t be halted.”
“K.I.M. Nederland was preferred because of their high level of flexibility,” Gert adds.

Sustainable elements

Uitgekookt focuses on innovation and sustainability alongside acquisitions. The company aims to personalize meals, enhance taste experiences, and develop sustainable packaging solutions. They monitor their carbon footprint by using local and seasonal ingredients, minimizing food waste, and optimizing logistical processes. This sustainable mindset also shaped the new production facility. “The building is gas-free,” says Gert. “All meals are produced using electricity, and solar panels have been installed on the roof.” Johan adds: “We want to be as self-sufficient as possible when it comes to energy. That’s necessary given the challenges of the Dutch power grid.” Through these initiatives, Uitgekookt aims to contribute to a future-proof meal service that benefits both customers and the environment.

A circus of events

Johan, Gert, and Gerard fondly reflect on the construction project. “At times, it felt like a circus,” Johan admits. “We faced unexpected surprises and often had to make decisions on the spot. It put pressure on the organization, but we managed it well. Now, we can finally focus on our core work again.”

The final result fills them with pride. Gert: “It’s a beautiful building. In the food industry, you often see functional designs, but here, functionality and aesthetics have been combined—it’s a true showcase.” Gerard highlights the flexibility of everyone involved: “We achieved this thanks to great teamwork and adaptability.” Johan is equally satisfied: “This project has given me new energy!” While he dreams of international growth, his immediate focus is on fine-tuning the new facilities.

Uitgekookt.nl
Rbk.nl
Kim-nederland.nl

Photos: Koos Groenewold