With the fourth generation at the helm, the family business Verstegen Spices & Sauces has a rich history. Even after the bombings in Rotterdam, we managed to stay afloat. Verstegen has now been active in the herb and spice industry for over 140 years.
The Establishment
Verstegen Spice Trade and Preservative Factory was founded in 1886 by Mr. Verstegen in Rotterdam. In 1897, Mr. Verstegen passed away.
After his death, the company was continued under the direction of two authorized signatories: Mr. C. Diederik and Mr. J. Man in 't Veld. Under their leadership, the company was involved in the trade of spices, dried fruits, and bakery ingredients.
The Tripartition
Around 1914, Mr. Diederik's eldest daughter became engaged to Mr. F.P. Kersteman, who sold his painting business and joined his father-in-law, Mr. Diederik. When the notorious antitrust law was introduced in 1915, Verstegen Specerijenhandel en Fabriek van conserveermiddelen (Verstegen Spice Trade and Preservative Factory) was split into three parts:
• C. Diederik en Zn Bakkerijgrondstoffen (C. Diederik & Son Bakery Raw Materials) under the leadership of Mr. Diederik;
• J.H. Verstegen under the leadership of Mr. Man in 't Veld;
• Verstegen Specerijenhandel en Fabriek van Conserveermiddelen (Verstegen Spice Trade and Preservative Factory) under the leadership of Mr. Kersteman, who married Mr. Diederik's daughter in 1918.
Butchery and sausage making
Verstegen laid the foundation in the butchery and sausage making industry.
A loyal customer base
Especially after the end of World War I, the company prospered. Despite the crisis years in 1932 and 1933, the company managed to stay afloat. By providing quality, service, and reliability, Verstegen gained a large and loyal customer base that ensured the company's steady growth.
