Schlappi makes stimulating plea for more attention and appreciation for older employee

That technology and craftsmanship are indispensable in the awning industry is not new news. Yet Dennis Schoormans, director of Schlappi Marquees in Tilburg, makes a clear appeal: "Invest in people, even - or especially - when they are past 50. My credo? You have to be able to participate until retirement. Precisely also to retain craftsmanship for the industry."

It is a message he has been carrying for years, and not without reason. The aging population continues, the labor market remains tight and the influx of young professionals lags behind. "Yet many companies still too often overlook the strength of older employees," says the visibly enthusiastic Dennis. "An unjustified stigma rests on this group. While in reality, they can actually make an enormous contribution to your organization."

At Schlappi in Tilburg, this conviction has been translated into policy. The company consciously works to create a workforce in which there is room for everyone, regardless of age. "After all, you get a lot in return: a strong work ethic, loyalty, motivation ánd expertise," Dennis emphasizes. "Moreover, older employees give culture and stability to your company. They are often the bearers of your organization."

Learning masters and learning culture

That role as a carrier is explicitly recognized within Schlappi. Older employees are used as tutors for younger colleagues. "This not only works well for the transfer of knowledge, but also for strengthening team spirit and continuity," Dennis says. As far as he is concerned, it fits within a broader strategy in which "learning to work" is central. Schlappi invests in employee development through on-the-job trainers, coaching, and an active training policy. "We use the so-called talent key model, which helps foster a strong learning culture. This is crucial for our future."

According to Dennis, developing a learning culture is not a luxury, but a necessity. "In a rapidly changing world - with technological developments, climate challenges and geopolitical uncertainties - your organization must be agile. That starts with people. And they must be given the space to keep developing continuously."

The power of social enterprise

In addition to embracing older employees, Schlappi is also actively committed to social entrepreneurship. For example, the company participates in the 'Basic Jobs' pilot of the municipality of Tilburg. "With this we give people with a distance to the labor market a chance at a sustainable place," says Schoormans. "A young man who came to us through this route will soon enter permanent employment and become a buddy for new participants. He has become an expert by experience - that has enormous value."

That combination of social policies, on-the-job learning and appreciation for experience provide a solid foundation. "We look not only at diplomas or age, but at commitment and potential. Everyone who wants to participate deserves that opportunity."

Call to the industry

So Dennis calls on fellow entrepreneurs in the awning industry to follow suit. "Have a social heart," he says. "Don't let older employees fall by the wayside; utilize their strengths. It's not only humane, it also makes good business sense."

His message is therefore clear: Those who dare to look at opportunities rather than limitations will build a future-proof company. "As an industry, we need everyone - young and old. And those who invest in this will always be rewarded sooner or later."