New generation takes over: Wernhout tree nursery rebranded as De Weimer
As of 1 July, Boomkwekerij Leenaerts-Halters & Zn. will officially be in the hands of Corné Leenaerts and his wife Cindy. This marks the continuation of the family business by the next generation, located in the hamlet of De Weimer. Fittingly, the nursery will also adopt a new name: Boomkwekerij De Weimer.
"The name change underscores the new phase our company is entering," Corné Leenaerts explains. His parents are stepping down after decades of dedication, although Corné has already been managing the day-to-day operations for several years. "For us, the takeover feels more like a formal step: our course remains consistent, with continued focus on diversification and professionalisation. We've already been working towards this in earlier years.
" The nursery combines open soil production—including seedlings and cuttings under contract—with approximately two hectares of pot and container cultivation. Key products include hydrangeas, ornamental shrubs, and roses, much of which is destined for the landscaping market and garden centres. "Our customers are mainly in the Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of Germany," says Corné. "Belgium has almost become a home market for us."
A notable aspect of the takeover is Corné's collaboration with his wife Cindy. "She joined the business two years ago, coming from a completely different industry. Running the business together feels empowering and brings us closer as a company." For the staff, little will change: the entire team will remain on board. The takeover thus represents a smooth generational transition with a strong focus on continuity and the future.
