Founded in 1943 in Heerlen as a cleaning company by Tonny Goedmakers, Vebego began with a simple mission: to create jobs for friends and neighbors and protect them from forced labor under German occupation.
An independent award jury of family business experts and previous award winners praised the enterprise, which has interests in cleaning, care services, facility management, and landscaping, for its strong governance practices, people-first philosophy, and disciplined approach to leadership succession.
“For 30 years, the Global Family Business Award has celebrated family enterprises that have shaped industries, communities, and generations,” said Peter Vogel, Director of the IMD Global Family Business Center. “Vebego stands out for its purpose-driven leadership, strong family governance, values-led culture, and deep commitment to creating positive impact for employees, customers, communities, and society.”
The jury also highlighted how the enterprise successfully aligns business performance, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility within a coherent long-term ownership philosophy.
“Since LEGO was recognized as the inaugural winner in 1996, the Award has showcased family businesses from around the world, highlighting their vision, innovation, and long-term impact,” said David Bach, IMD President. “Vebego is a powerful example of the contribution family enterprises make to the global economy.”
Vebego’s social mission has expanded alongside its business. Creating opportunities for people furthest from the labor market is one of the company’s four strategic priorities, reflecting its belief that meaningful work creates opportunities for individuals while contributing to stronger communities.
“Receiving this award is a wonderful affirmation of the direction we have chosen and of the values that have shaped Vebego for generations. Most of all, it is a recognition of our nearly 40,000 colleagues. It is a tribute to the incredible work they do with care and kindness every day, often behind the scenes,” said Ton Goedmakers, CEO and third-generation owner of Vebego.
“My grandfather, who founded Vebego, would be immensely proud of how the company has grown across generations while staying true to its roots. To be recognized in this way is both humbling and inspiring. We see it as encouragement to continue building a company where people, performance, and purpose go hand in hand,” he added.
The IMD Award recognizes exceptional owners whose vision, stewardship, and commitment to long-term value creation embody the spirit of this year’s Family Business Network (FBN) 35th Global Summit theme of Ownership in Motion.
“Ownership is not a static responsibility but a continuous journey of adaptation and stewardship. Ownership in Motion captures the ability of enduring family enterprises to evolve across generations while remaining anchored in their values and purpose,” said FBN CEO Alexis du Roy de Blicquy.
The prestigious IMD Award, which has recognized and showcased the work of the best-in-class family businesses since 1996, provides a neutral platform for analyzing the evolving and vital role of family-owned enterprises in the global economy, as well as for the exchange of best practices to accelerate enhancements in the field.
Swiss watch and jewelry maker Maison Chopard, itself a family business since 1860, has designed and handcrafted the award trophy since 1999. Shaped like a tree, it symbolizes the enduring values of family enterprise – from deep, solid roots to new branches growing from a shared trunk, representing the continuity of generations.
The Family Business Network hosts the annual award ceremony at its Global Summit. This year’s 35th edition of the summit is taking place in Cologne, Germany.
