Belgian fishing industry PO Rederscentrale this year celebrated its 75th anniversary, and from 1st January it also takes on a new identity as the Belgian Fisheries Producers Organisation (BFPO).
The change of name comes with a new logo and a refreshed corporate identity. The rebranding marks a clear ambition – a modern, effective, and internationally recognisable representation of the Belgian fisheries sector.
The two events held in September to mark the 75th anniversary of Rederscentrale also mark the beginning of a new chapter. As BFPO, the organisation aims to strengthen its visibility and further enhance its role as the only PO for the Belgian sea fisheries sector, both nationally and internationally.
‘The trusted values and expertise of Rederscentrale will remain undiminished,’ stressed current chairman Geert De Groote.
‘However, our sector is evolving rapidly. With BFPO, we are consciously choosing a contemporary identity that better aligns with the needs of today and tomorrow, and that strengthens our organisation’s international position.’
The new identity applies exclusively to PO operations. The professional association will continue to operate under the Rederscentrale vzw name, ensuring that both roles remain clear and transparent.
In addition to the new name and corporate identity, a significant change of mandate will also take place on 1st January, as after eight years as chairman, Geert De Groote will hand over to Karel Ackx, who will take over as the new chairman of BFPO.
Geert De Groote will remain active within the organisation as a board member.
The new website will also go live on 1st January 2026, at www.bfpo.be.
In addition to all information about PO operations, there will be a separate section for Rederscentrale vzw.
The general secretariat can be reached from that date at info@bfpo.be. Telephone contact details remain unchanged. Staff can be reached via their individual BFPO email addresses, which can be found on the updated website.
