Widem Logistics aims to deliver the best end-to-end logistics services.
3 min
From a used van and a garage serving as a warehouse to an international logistics player with 700 employees: Widem Logistics embodies authentic entrepreneurship, agility, and the importance of a strong financial partner.
A customs pioneer with a vision
Widem Logistics’ story began in 1983, when Yvan Vande Ghinste founded a customs agency from his rented home. His mission? To simplify customs formalities. "Every day, I would visit companies to collect customs documents. This way, goods no longer had to go through a customs office—the customs officer came to them."
A seamless end-to-end service that won clients over. A new office in the LAR industrial zone of West Flanders and a warehouse soon followed. Morocco (1991) and Turkey (1996) became the first foreign sites where Yvan combined customs clearance with transport. "A client in Morocco had an issue with a carrier and asked if I could step in," Yvan recalls. "This client was a global fashion player. Of course, you don’t say no to that!"
From local player to international hub
By the early 2000s, the transformation was complete: with 5,000 m² of warehouse space and a fleet of 20 trucks and 30 trailers, Widem was no longer just a customs specialist but a full-fledged logistics partner. The next step? Conquering Europe. Between 2000 and 2012, branches opened in Slovakia, the UK, Spain, and France. This expansion laid the foundation for what Widem Logistics is today: an end-to-end logistics provider combining local expertise with international reach.
Growth through rapid adaptation and a trusted partner
The past 15 years have been defined by change. The rise of e-commerce disrupted logistics, and Brexit brought new challenges. Yet—or perhaps because of these upheavals—the company continued to grow. So much so that it has appeared in the Trends Gazelles ranking for West Flanders for 3 consecutive years. "The collaboration with BNP Paribas Fortis has greatly contributed to Widem Logistics’ rapid growth."— Yvan Vande Ghinste, Founder and CEO of Widem Logistics.
And the bank’s role? BNP Paribas Fortis has been Widem Logistics’ partner for over 10 years now, explains Yvan. Over these years, a bond of trust has formed—one that isn’t about to break.
Sandrine Verhaeghe, Relationship Manager at BNP Paribas Fortis, confirms the smoothness of this collaboration. “We always think alongside our client. When Yvan works on a new project, we jointly assess how best to support him, leveraging our expertise and financing solutions. This process and the discussions around it always move quickly and smoothly,” Yvan adds.
« The bank trusts Widem Logistics. Thanks to BNP Paribas Fortis’ support and confidence, I and Widem Logistics have been able to invest in sustainable growth, scale up, and professionalise. This partnership has been key to our development. »
YVAN VANDE GHINSTE – OWNER/C.E.O. WIDEM HOLDING COMPANY N.V.
Planning the next step for your business?
Request an appointment with a relationship manager in your area. We’re happy to guide you.