At Hazera, we value the people who have helped shape our company over the years. In this Heritage Edition, we reconnect with colleagues who have either moved on from Hazera or have been part of our team for many years. Today, we speak with Arthur Zuidweg, Supply Chain Planning Expert. For more than 40 years, Arthur has been an integral part of Hazera’s story.

Arthur began as an assistant bean breeder, coming from a background in garden architecture. Introduced to the seed business by his father-in-law, this step proved life-changing — bringing him not only a lifelong career but also a lifelong marriage. Arthur’s current role is Planning expert within the Supply Chain department.

From beans to supply chain, Arthur has seen it all. “Back in the day, we even did the quality checks ourselves. NAKTuinbouw trained me for this,” he recalls. Beyond work, Arthur treasures his family, with whom he shares many proud memories and joys, including his grandchildren.

What is a common myth about your job or field of expertise?

“There’s a common myth that Supply Chain ‘knows’ everything or can fix every problem. In reality, while we do play a central role — acting as the spider in the web between production, processing, demand planning, and sales — our real strength lies in connecting the dots.” Arthur explains that it’s Supply Chain’s responsibility to bring the right people and processes together. “But it’s important to stress that solving every issue requires collaboration across the organization. It’s never a one-team effort.”

In your opinion, what is the most important personality trait someone should have to work in your industry?

“In Supply Chain, you need to work well under pressure and show resilience. It’s about maintaining a helicopter view while staying calm and collected — especially during the high season, when stress levels can be intense,” explains Arthur.

Tell us about a project you’re proud of and why?

“I’ve been a Supply Chain Manager and Team Lead for more than 12.5 years. Beyond the business responsibilities, I truly enjoyed leading a team — it was a rewarding experience, and I’m proud of the team I had the opportunity to build. The personal connections mean a great deal to me.”

Arthur also benefited from the support of his wife, who managed a large team herself. “Exchanging experiences and learning from each other was inspiring, and she often offered me an invaluable ‘outside-in’ perspective.”

What does “Hazera – Growing Together” mean to you?

“Literally growing together. With a sense of unity and solidarity, we do this as a team — taking care of each other, listening to one another, and showing respect, even in our differences.” Arthur is convinced that that’s very important nowadays.

Tell us something interesting/funny about you most people don’t know.

“In my spare time, I enjoy woodworking with my son. Together, we design and create wooden tables with epoxy. Woodcraft is my hobby, and it’s even more special because I get to share it with him.”

What lessons have you learned in 40 years that you would pass on to younger colleagues?

“Over the years, I’ve witnessed the company’s growth, marked by rising sales and an expanding crop portfolio,” Arthur says. “But beyond the business achievements, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned in four decades is the importance of truly listening. When we listen to each other, we gain deeper understanding. And that’s how we find the best solutions together.”

What do you hope the company will achieve in the years ahead?
Arthur doesn’t beat around the bush: “We strive to be the market leader in onions.”

If we opened a time capsule from your first year here, what would we find inside?
“A forklift would be in the time capsule because it symbolises those early years of hard, hands-on work. And,” Arthur continues, “it reflects the practical side of my role, the dedication to keeping everything moving, and the way we all helped lay the foundation for what the company has become today. It’s more than just a machine, it represents reliability, effort, and the essential contribution we made from day one.”

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