What does VAEX do?
VAEX – from piglet to plate
A glimpse inside a trading house with character
When you say VAEX, you say piglets. Since the 1970s, thousands of piglets and pigs have been traded every week from Reek to customers all over Europe. But there’s much more behind those numbers than just trade. Over the years, VAEX has grown into a dynamic company with a broad network, smart side activities, and a down-to-earth mentality. Time to take a look under the hood.
European piglets, that's what it's all about
The trade in piglets is the engine of VAEX. Every week, thousands of animals are delivered to customers in Spain, Italy, Croatia, Serbia, but also in countries like Hungary, Germany, Poland, Greece, Bosnia, etc. Not bulk work, but tailor-made solutions. Because every company has different needs in terms of genetics, weight, health, and planning.
What makes VAEX special is the combination of knowledge of the European market and short lines of communication. Through daily contact with suppliers and buyers, the team knows exactly what’s going on and can respond quickly.
More than just piglets
Besides piglets, VAEX is also active in the trade of slaughter pigs and breeding gilts. Due to rising genetic demands and better breeding programs, more and more companies are opting for specialist breeding gilts. VAEX has a share in this thanks to its European connections and matchmaking.
VAEX is also no stranger to the cattle sector. Cattle (mainly pregnant heifers) are traded for breeding, fattening, or slaughter, both within and outside Europe. Thanks to a reliable network and knowledge of veterinary requirements per country, VAEX is able to serve this market well too.
From live animal to meat
For several years now, VAEX has also been active at the other end of the chain. Through Pigarné, a specialized slaughterhouse for piglets, piglets that are not suitable for further rearing are still put to optimal use. The carcasses go directly to countries and the meat processing industry where piglet meat is consumed, especially Germany, Southeast Europe, and Asia.
A look at Europe
VAEX thinks beyond the existing lines. For example, there is currently research into whether and how it can mediate in the sale of Romanian pig farms. In Western Europe, many farmers are quitting or seeking opportunities abroad, while the sector there is in full swing, and with the right partnerships, VAEX can play a connecting role.
There are also new opportunities in Italy. There, they are fattening slaughter pigs themselves. This gives more insight and a better feel for our customers.
Always evolving
What characterizes VAEX is the drive to keep innovating. Not flashy, but determined. By making smart combinations between different markets, services, and countries, the company stays relevant. No day is the same, but the common thread is always clear: reliable trading, with both feet on the ground.
Whether it’s a truckload of piglets to southern Germany, a batch of breeding gilts for an Italian company, or a deal for frozen meat to Eastern Europe, at VAEX you know where you stand. And that might just be the greatest strength of all.
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