In conversation with Service Manager Henk Naaktgeboren

At Verbruggen, everything revolves around reliable palletizers designed to perform for years. But even the most robust machine requires attention to maintain peak performance. Service Manager Henk Naaktgeboren explains how service, maintenance, and smart solutions help maximize uptime and ensure operational continuity for customers worldwide.

“We keep machines running, especially when it matters most”

Service plays a central role within Verbruggen. “We don’t just solve breakdowns, we focus on preventing them,” says Henk. “We do this through preventive maintenance, but also by supplying spare parts to customers, dealers, and our international branches.”

Service officially comes into play once a machine is installed at the customer site. “However, on complex projects, we often get involved earlier, during production. This allows us to provide maintenance insights from day one and ensure everything is set up correctly.”

According to Henk, service is critical for both customers and the organization: “A machine must be available when the customer needs it most. We make sure it stays in top condition. We’re also the main point of contact throughout the entire lifecycle of the machine. We’re always there.”

Smart spare parts strategies: staying in control of downtime

A key development in service is the use of spare parts kits. “These are carefully assembled kits with the most failure-prone components, such as sensors, cables, and valves,” Henk explains.

These kits give customers greater control. “They have the right parts on hand and can often resolve minor issues themselves. That reduces waiting time and dependency.”

And that’s increasingly important. “Logistics have become less predictable. You can’t always rely on next-day delivery anymore. In many cases, one day of downtime costs more than the investment in a spare parts kit.”

From reacting to anticipating

Henk sees a clear shift in the market. “The next generation of customers increasingly understands the importance of maintenance, especially as skilled labor becomes harder to find. You want to stay ahead of problems, not react to them.”

This proactive approach delivers measurable results: higher uptime, lower costs, and more efficient operations. “Preventive maintenance is plannable. It gives customers control and peace of mind.”

His advice to companies still operating reactively? “At least explore your options. Maintenance doesn’t have to be annual, it depends on usage. We help customers determine what fits their operation.”

“A customer doesn’t have a problem, they have a challenge”

What does Henk enjoy most about working in service? “Solving problems and truly helping customers. You take away stress—that’s rewarding.”

He is proud of his team: “We have a wealth of experience. Ronald has been with us for nearly 25 years, and Pieter, Kor, and Hanneke around 10 years. Our new colleague Martin brings fresh perspectives. That combination makes us strong.”

What defines a great service engineer? “Staying calm when the customer isn’t. And being able to connect. We don’t see a customer as difficult, we see someone with a challenge. And we enjoy solving it.”

In closing

When asked to summarize service in one sentence, Henk smiles:
“I hope we don’t speak often… but when you need us, we’re always ready.”