Brewer and entrepreneur Frédéric van der Kelen has died at the age of 91

Frédéric van der Kelen devoted his life to his family, his passion for gardening and photography, and his love of wine and beer. Frédéric van der Kelen began working at the brewery in 1956, where he worked under his father, Alfred van der Kelen. After his father’s death in 1968, he became CEO of Brouwerij Haacht and Co.Br.Ha. until October 2020, after which he became Chairman of the Board of Directors of Co.Br.Ha. until May 2024.

Frédéric van der Kelen was known as Belgium’s longest-serving CEO, with a 52-year track record at the helm of the company. His entrepreneurial spirit and perseverance led to numerous acquisitions, modernization efforts, and the brewery’s international expansion. Other major achievements included the franchise agreement with PepsiCo International in Belgium in 1985—which is still in effect today—the licensing agreement with Tongerlo Abbey for the brewing and distribution of its abbey beers around 1990, and the purchase and expansion of the Château la Grande Barde winery in Montagne-Saint-Emilion, France.

Frédéric van der Kelen was particularly proud that Haacht Brewery had grown to become one of the country’s largest 100% Belgian and independent breweries. This success was due in part to Primus, the brewery’s distinctive and often award-winning pilsner. “If you want to achieve something, you have to fight for it. That fighting spirit is a trait deeply rooted in the family’s genes.” , Frédéric van der Kelen said on that subject. Faith was important to Frédéric van der Kelen, and it influenced his values and choices. This was reflected in his social commitment and support for the community.

“My father was a source of inspiration. He embodied perseverance, entrepreneurship, and an unshakable belief in finding solutions. His vision and leadership not only shaped our brewery but also touched our hearts. We honor his legacy by continuing to cherish and carry on his values, while building the future of our brewery with the same dedication,” said Boudewijn van der Kelen, CEO of Brouwerij Haacht.

“I came to know him as an old-school ‘patron.’ He identified completely with his company, was self-assured and strict, but also had a sense of humor. Someone who supported his employees when they faced difficult personal circumstances and was even willing to help competitors—for example, after a fire at a business,” said Anne Vleminckx, Chair of the Board of Directors.

The funeral service will be held in a small, intimate gathering.