How is Weinheimer Natural Stone doing now?

In March 2023, we published a article about Weinheimer Natuursteen, a family business based in Susteren. Brothers Léon and Noël told about their ambitious plans to move from traditional natural stone production to a circular way of working. Their participation in the CIRCO track (together with Rabobank and LIOF) gave the company a push in the right direction. Now, more than a year later, we look back and look ahead. What steps has Weinheimer Natural Stone taken in the meantime?

One of the first changes Weinheimer Natural Stone made was an overhaul of their marketing strategy. Léon says, "With our marketing company, we completely removed the term 'second-hand' from our communications and replaced it with 'circular and sustainable.' That change makes a big difference in how customers view these products."

Although the vision is clear, the company encountered several challenges. "Right now, we still have to keep the linear process alongside the circular," says Léon. "With linear work, the customer orders exactly what they need and that is purchased. But with circular work, you first have to look at what you have in stock and what you can offer. That requires a different way of thinking."

The transition to circular work requires changes not only in operations but also in the mindset of customers. "It takes time to get people to understand that circular products can be just as good, if not better, than new products."

The biggest challenge is convincing municipalities to clear graves in an environmentally friendly way. "Some municipalities are not yet ready for this, which makes it difficult to work fully circular," Léon says. "However, the positive reactions from customers and the growing demand for circular grave monuments are encouraging. In our area of operations, we now have a large stock of circular materials."

Thanks to the CIRCO track, the brothers have learned to look outside their own industry and collaborate. One example is their collaboration with demolition companies that operate nationwide. "These companies specialize in asbestos remediation and large property demolition, sorting and reusing materials. We consult with them regularly on administrative processes. For one of these companies, we recently produced circular window sills and cover plates," Léon said.

Weinheimer is also committed to education and cooperation with technical schools to train future professionals. Léon explains, "We have offered internships to students from technical schools because there is a great shortage of skilled workers in the Netherlands."

Despite the challenges, Léon is optimistic about the future. "We continue to make strides toward sustainability. But it takes time to integrate and promote everything. We also need to invest in machinery and convince our people of the benefits of circular working."

He believes the future of Weinheimer Natural Stone is circular. "We see this as something that is needed and remain committed to making it happen. It's a long road, but we are determined to keep going."

With a clear vision and a driven team, Weinheimer Natural Stone is well on its way to transforming the natural stone industry and being an example of how traditional businesses can make the leap to sustainability. "It takes time, but it's worth it. We are building a sustainable future, brick by brick."

Léon concludes with an inspiring message, "If we can all contribute a little to a sustainable future, we can make great strides together. It is a challenge, but with the right mindset and support we can achieve a lot."

Weinheimer Natural Stone demonstrates that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand, even in a traditional sector like natural stone. Their journey to a circular production process is an inspiring case for other companies looking to take the same path.

Are you - like Weinheimer Natural Stone - also looking for support in circular entrepreneurship? Then check out whether participation in a CIRCO Track might be something for you.