Trappists of Westmalle

About the Trappists of Westmalle

The Westmalle Brewery is known for its Trappist beer and the abbey’s rich tradition. Three years ago, they received a new request from retail customers: the beer needed to be available in clips—cardboard carriers in which four or six bottles are securely snapped into place.

Hans Poels, who is in charge of logistics, explains:

“We used to sell our Trappist beer only in individual bottles or cases. Then our retail customers asked us to sell our beer in clips. We were open to the suggestion, but we didn’t have the space to install an additional machine. The alternative was to apply the clips by hand.”

Because installing clips requires flexibility in scheduling and the brewery’s own staff was already fully occupied, the brewery quickly sought an external partner. Choosing A-kwadraat a natural decision.

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How We Work Together to Strengthen Westmalle Trappist Beer

Our team supports the Trappists of Westmalle in various ways. Specifically, five employees from A-kwadraat attach clips in the aging cellar and assemble multipacks. In addition, employees fr assist in the cheese-making process and with packing export boxes.

“The collaboration is going smoothly,” says Hans. “Two people from A-kwadraat completely independently in the cheese-making facility, without a supervisor. They coat the cheese and turn it several times a day. Communication and collaboration with our staff are going very smoothly.”

Thanks to this support, our own staff can focus on their core tasks, ensuring that production runs smoothly and without errors.

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This Is How We Work Together

From the initial meeting to full integration

The collaboration began with an exploratory visit to A-kwadraat production facilities. Afterward, our business unit manager and lead supervisor visited Trappisten van Westmalle to finalize specific arrangements. Together, we set up a worksite equipped with platforms, conveyor belts, scissor lifts, and equipment such as label printers and scanners. Our supervisors also obtained their forklift certifications in advance.

Hans: “There’s a lot of mutual respect. We know most of the permanent staff and the caregivers well. When we give out gifts for Easter and Sinterklaas, no one is treated differently. A great example of inclusion.”

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Results to Be Proud Of

The use of A-kwadraat a direct impact on production.

“After a short training period, output has exceeded expectations. About 40 pallets are fitted with clips each day, which amounts to about 40,000 clips per week. And that’s with almost no errors.”

The quality control department confirmed that the clips were applied with nearly 100% accuracy. Even during the COVID-19 crisis, when production was temporarily halted, respect for A-kwadraat continued to grow. “Back then, all of us at the bottling plant spent an entire day applying clips. Since then, our respect has only grown,” said Hans. 

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The Added Value of A-kwadraat

At Trappisten van Westmalle, it’s not just about applying clips. It’s about reliability, precision, and a team that truly grows alongside the brewery.

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  ’s Flexibility Hans Poels: “They stick closely to the schedule and get the work done quickly. They work with us to find solutions when problems arise, and they’re very flexible.”‍
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  's Reliability: Our employees ensure that every clip is applied correctly, with virtually no errors, week after week.‍
• Precision and Quality
  Our A-kwadraat work meticulously and independently. Every step counts, from properly snapping the clips into place to coating and turning the cheese. This enables Trappisten van Westmalle to consistently deliver high-quality work without putting extra pressure on its own staff.‍
• Social Value
  For the abbey, it is important that work be meaningful and that people have the opportunity to grow. A-kwadraat perfectly with this, combining social commitment with professional dedication.

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How We Make an Impact Together

Thanks to A-kwadraat efforts, Trappisten van Westmalle A-kwadraat meet retail demand without disrupting the production of its traditional beer or cheese. The work of A-kwadraat frees up time for the company’s own staff, promotes inclusion, and ensures quality and precision.