Royal Van Leeuwen Celebrates Centenary with Positive 2024 Results Amid Market Challenges
In a remarkable display of resilience, Royal Van Leeuwen has reported a positive financial performance for the year 2024, despite facing significant challenges in the market. This year was particularly special for the Dutch company as it celebrated its one hundredth anniversary, marking a century of operations in the steel pipe distribution sector. Moreover, the company received a Royal designation, a testament to its significant contributions and reputation in the industry.
The financial results for Royal Van Leeuwen indicate that, while market conditions were less favorable compared to previous years, the organization managed to navigate these adversities effectively. The total revenue for 2024 amounted to €1,335 million, a decrease from €1,621 million in 2023. The operating income followed suit, registering at €22 million as opposed to €60 million the previous year. Furthermore, the net income saw a drop to €14 million from €43 million in 2023. Nonetheless, the company's solvency ratio improved to 49.8%, up from 46.8% in the prior year.
Throughout 2024, the European industry market experienced a steady decline in demand, leading to lower prices and profit margins. This decrease was particularly pronounced in the tonnage sold from stock across Europe. However, the energy sector proved to be a silver lining for Royal Van Leeuwen, as the company secured several significant projects in Europe and Asia, with notable success in supplying materials for large developmental endeavors, including the construction of Europe’s most sustainable ethane cracker located in the Port of Antwerp.
Royal Van Leeuwen continues to maintain a global presence, operating across various regions including North America, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. This broad geographical footprint allows the company to leverage local market insights while offering a wide range of industrial applications tailored to meet diverse customer needs.
The year also saw considerable investments aimed at enhancing the company’s operational capabilities. In Zwijndrecht, Netherlands, Royal Van Leeuwen commissioned an impressive 315-meter long Monorail system, recognized as the largest pipe sorting center globally. The opening of the World Tube Center (WTC) in the same city provided a platform to showcase the company’s innovations and product offerings to its clients and partners. Further emphasizing its commitment to sustainability, Royal Van Leeuwen invested in various green initiatives including the installation of solar panels and a focus on enhancing its inventory with materials featuring a reduced carbon footprint. The launch of its brand, Van Leeuwen Impact, underscores its dedication to environmentally responsible practices.
As the organization looks forward, leadership changes are on the horizon. On April 9, 2025, Peter Rietberg will step down as Chairman of the Management Board but will remain involved as a shareholder. Joop Sassen, who has been instrumental in the company since 1992, will assume the role of Chairman, bringing extensive experience from his tenure as CEO. Alongside him, Hans Weerstra and Vincent Geerts have been named to the Management Board.
In his remarks, Peter Rietberg expressed confidence in the future of Royal Van Leeuwen, highlighting the company’s strong international network and diverse product portfolio. He emphasized the importance of a dedicated workforce, which has been key to the company’s enduring success.
As it enters its second century, Royal Van Leeuwen is poised for continued innovation and growth, reaffirming its role as a leader in the steel pipe distribution industry and a trusted partner for clients around the globe. With a focus on sustainable practices and project diversification, the company remains committed to excellence and responsiveness to market needs.