Dear colleagues,

Summer is behind us, and the final sprint towards the end of the year has begun. It is a good moment to reflect on where we stand and, more importantly, where we are heading.
 
In the first half of the year, we were not able to deliver on our growth ambition of 5%. Year to date, our sales are 3% below last year. Does this mean our strategy is not working? I do not believe so. Like many of our competitors, we are operating in challenging market conditions. We have faced setbacks in some markets, but we have also seen encouraging results, with several markets delivering strong double-digit growth. These successes prove that our growth plans can work and that opportunities are out there.
 
At the same time, we should not become complacent. Growth remains essential. When a company does not grow, pressure on costs inevitably increases. That is why these months are so important for Modular.
 
Our ambition is clear: return to growth and finish the year with a stable topline compared to last year. In today’s market, that would already be a solid achievement. But we should aim higher. We want to outperform our markets, strengthen our position, and build momentum for 2027. To make this happen, I am asking every one of us to stay focused on execution. Deliver on our priorities with speed and discipline. Challenge existing ways of working. Stop activities that do not create value. Create room for the initiatives that truly make a difference for our customers and our business.
Most importantly, let us remember that success is not about working harder. It is about working smarter. By simplifying, prioritizing, collaborating, and focusing our energy where it matters most.
 
I want to thank all of you for your commitment and dedication. Every day, I see the passion that makes Modular special. It is this passion, combined with our creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, that gives me confidence for the months ahead.
 
It will be a busy and exciting autumn. Let’s embrace the challenge, support each other, and show once again what Modular is capable of.

Kristof

What’s at the top of your bucket list?
Bikepacking through Canada, for example. Or somewhere closer to home, like Norway or the Dolomites.

How do you take your coffee (or tea)?
Never coffee, always freshly brewed tea – Earl Grey or jasmine. Good fresh tea needs no sugar or milk.

What’s the funniest or most memorable thing you’ve experienced at work?
The very first Modular Dealer Days, including the night walk through the grounds of Beervelde Castle and the party that followed.

If you could choose a superpower, what would it be and why?
I’d love to be able to turn invisible, so I could secretly sit next to my children in class for once.

What’s your favourite workday snack?
Tomato soup with meatballs from Bakkerij Geldhof, with crackers.

What music do you put on when you need an energy boost?
My ‘boost’ button is switched on the moment I get out of bed. But if I really needed that little extra push, there’s one specific song: Disparate Youth by Santigold.

Who would you swap places with for a day, inside or outside the company?
I’d swap places with an astronaut for a day, just to see our tiny but precious planet from a completely different perspective. Although I’d be very happy to have both feet firmly back on the ground afterwards.

What was your first side job?
Loading cargo planes.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
From my father: “If you don’t ask, the answer is always no.”

If you were an emoji, which one would you be?
The upside-down face. 🙃

What do you always order at the snackbar?
A Vosjesburger - a burger served on a crusty bread roll ('pistolet').