That question is the main focus of this mini video podcast with Maarten Rijs, COO of ENKEV Group. He shares how his organization is working to create a future-proof production environment—by gaining insights, implementing digitalization in phases, and, above all, involving people in the change process.
How a SMB factory becomes future-proof
Challenges are piling up for small and medium-sized businesses. An aging population, sustainability, and changing customer behavior call for different choices and smarter ways of working. But how do you tackle this without overburdening your organization?
ENKEV produces biodegradable fibers for products such as mattresses, made from animal and plant-based raw materials. The product is inherently sustainable and artisanal in nature. But as Maarten makes clear, future-proofing isn’t just about what you make — it’s also about how you make it.
Those who want to improve, work more efficiently, or make the work easier must first understand what is actually happening on the factory floor. At ENKEV, change therefore begins with insight. By collecting data and gaining a better understanding of processes, they gain control. Technology is not an end in itself, but a tool for organizing production more efficiently and improving working conditions.
Relatable for many SMB businesses
ENKEV’s story isn’t a blueprint, but a relatable journey. It’s for small and medium-sized businesses that may (still) be viewed as "low-tech", but that do have the ambition to operate in a future-proof way.
Watch this short video podcast and discover the concrete steps you can take to digitally transform your low-tech SMB and what that means for your processes, people, and future-proofing.
June 2026