Farewell to Joost Broeders: 27 Years of Innovation, Growth, and Family at Baril Coatings

After an impressive 27 year career, Joost is saying goodbye to Baril Coatings. What began in 1998 as an R&D employee grew into a key role as Technical Director. In this farewell interview, Joost reflects on his highlights, shares his vision for the industry, and looks ahead to a new adventure.

From Small Player to Market Leader
Joost recalls how, in his early days, Baril Coatings was still a relatively small player in the Protective Coatings market. “We have grown into a serious SME and a frontrunner in the field of biobased and circular solutions, both in the Decorative and Protective markets.” He cites the DCC patent for DualCure technology, obtained in Europe, the US, and Canada, as one of the most important innovations. He is also visibly proud of the recent advancements in biobased products and the achievement of certifications such as Economy for the Common Good and B Corp: “The fact that we were able to accomplish this as a company certainly makes me proud!”

Energy from Collaboration and Development
What always energized Joost most? “Collaborating with colleagues and partners across the value chain, creating great things together that lead to sustainable products and initiatives.” He found particular fulfillment in coaching and helping young colleagues and interns grow. Representing Baril at international conferences was also an honor, bringing him to special places around the world.

Confidence in the Future
Now that Joost is passing the baton to a new generation, he looks forward with confidence: “I have  enormous confidence in the team we have today. They will continue to drive innovation and help us achieve our goal of 100% renewable by 2030.” For the industry, he sees circularity, biobased and recycled raw materials, and “Safe and Sustainable by Design” as defining trends, supported by smart AI tools.

A Family Business with a Unique Culture
What makes Baril unique? According to Joost, it’s the family spirit and the attention paid to the families behind the employees. “That is what makes us Baril.” He expresses his gratitude to everyone at Baril and all partners for their collaboration and open discussions. Still, he mentions two people by name: Geert Duijghuisen, for the opportunities and freedom, and Hans Broeders, co-founder and driving force behind Baril, who is still deeply missed.

New Energy, New Adventure
For Joost, it feels right to make way for the next generation: “The right people are in the right places. You are capable of letting Baril continue to flourish.” To his successors, he offers this advice: “Remain careful in decision-making, analytical in your thinking, and always be a good listener.”

He is enthusiastic about his next step: “At Royal Talens, I will contribute to the further development of the company in a New Business Development role between R&D, Sales, and Production. No more autopilot, but a new adventure with fresh challenges!”

Values for the Future
“Believe in yourself and trust your own strength, those are lessons I will definitely carry with me from my time at Baril. Saying goodbye feels bittersweet: after so many years, it’s not easy to let go, but I look back with pride and confidence on what we’ve achieved together—and forward to what lies ahead. I will continue to follow Baril with great interest, because the company and its people will always remain dear to me.”

Joost, on behalf of everyone at Baril: thank you for your years of dedication, vision, and commitment. We wish you every success and happiness in your new challenge!