Borg-Bouw and A-kwadraat: A Successful Journey Toward Inclusive Employment Practices.

Sometimes a partnership reveals its true value at unexpected moments. For Borg-Bouw in Lille—a family-owned business that carries out high-quality, sustainable construction projects and is one of our clients—this happened when one of their employees needed more support than they could provide as a regular business.

‍

What began as a concerned conversation turned into a heartwarming journey and a fresh start for Robbe, who is now completely at home in his role. How exactly did that happen? We spoke with Rikkert, workshop manager at Borg-Bouw; Febe, HR Business Partner at A-kwadraat; and Robbe himself.

‍

“We want people to be able to grow. Sometimes that means in a new environment” – Febe (HR Business Partner at A-kwadraat)

‍

“When Borg-Bouw contacted us, their request was immediately clear: ‘We want to make sure our employee ends up in a good place.’ It touched us that a loyal client wasn’t just asking an operational question, but a human one,” said Febe. “They saw that Robbe needed more support and were determined to prevent him from getting stuck. That shows just how people-oriented their approach is.”

‍

During our first meeting, it became clear that Robbe needed structure, close supervision, and a stable work environment. “That’s exactly where our expertise lies,” says Febe. “Since Rikkert has known our social enterprise for customized work several years social enterprise for customized work through a successful partnership, everything went very smoothly. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with a company that doesn’t ‘pass the buck,’ but truly wants the best for its people.”

‍

“Robbe has talent. He just needed the right environment. – Rikkert (Workshop Manager at Borg-Bouw)”

‍

Rikkert, too, genuinely considered what Robbe needed. “Robbe first did his ABO internship with us and then worked for us for three more months during the summer. He was insecure and often doubted himself. We saw his talent, but certain tasks caused him a lot of stress. As an employer, you have to ask yourself whether you can still provide the right support.”

‍

According to him, the decision to A-kwadraat to A-kwadraat was not a farewell but a sign of care. “Robbe deserves good guidance in the workplace. And who better to provide that than A-kwadraat?”

‍

The transition took place in close consultation and with a strong focus on Robbe.A-kwadraat structured yet people-oriented,” says Rikkert. “I hope more companies will adopt that mindset: starting with employee well-being and daring to identify where someone can grow the most.”

‍

And what about Robbe himself? He's beaming.

‍

“I feel good here.” – Robbe (woodworking shop employee)

‍

“At first, I was nervous,” he says. “Everything was new: the people, the instructions, the workplace. But everyone was very friendly. Now I’m working in the woodshop, and I’m already helping out with various machines. I’m starting to know everyone by name, and I even have a regular spot at the table with my buddy Christophe and two other coworkers. I feel right at home here.”

‍

This successful initiative demonstrates what inclusive employment looks like in practice.
“If people can find a new lease on life here and enjoy coming to work, then together we’ve done the right thing,” Febe concludes.