An independent Dutch family business
We are an independent Dutch family business that has been successful in making paint since 1916.
Not because we stick to old habits, but by combining timeless craftsmanship with new technologies and the latest insights.
Professional paint since 1916
With 100 years experience, we are innovative in an industry that we know inside out. We want to keep what is good, and improve where possible.
At the same time we are aware that an innovation only makes a difference if it helps our customers move forward.
1916
Establishment of wholesale company Van Wijhe-Vermeulen
1928
Two sons (E. van Wijhe and J.T. van Wijhe) join the business
1935
First year of paint production
1941
2nd generation sons E. and J.T. van Wijhe continue the business
1946
System paint based on coloured carbolineum and primer
1965
Relocation from Zwolle (city) to industrial zone
1971
3rd generation D.H. van Wijhe becomes managing director
1978
Takeover brand Ralston of Sherwin Williams, a giant US company
1984
New colour tinting system developed
1994
Marlies van Wijhe joins the company
2000
Marlies van Wijhe – 4th generation – succeeds her father, Dick van Wijhe
2002
Completion of new building waterborne factory
2007
Ralston concept ‘paint kitchen’ in Indonesia
2008
First sales outlets in Poland
2010
Marlies van Wijhe voted Business Woman of the year
2010
Introduction of low VOC tinting system AQ 800-900
2010
Introduction of innovated Ralston Aqua line
2010
Introduction of innovated Ralston Solvent line
2011
Introduction of ‘YOUR STYLE Collection’ colour concept
2012
Opening of revitalized laboratory
2013
Completion of colourful & sustainable new building
2014
Biobased wall paints
2014
Introductie van OER lijnolieverven
2016
100 Years Van Wijhe Verf
2016
First chemical company worldwide with a B-Corp certificate.
2017
Ralston introduces paint technical advice app
2018
Introduction Next Generation BIOseries
. paint . passion . people
Natural good and sustainable
Simply making the best paint. That is what we want and what we do. For 100 years now. We enjoy working with people who share our passion. Our lab staff enjoys explaining the chemical processes that make our paints touch-dry so quickly. As a painter, what you really want is a result you can be proud of. And so do we.
Passion for beautiful paint
Naturally, it all begins with good paint. Ralston guarantees it. But we also realise that Ralston must help you as painter and as business. We don’t innovate because it is the trend. We innovate to make better products. Products that make painting a joy and that surprise your customers.
The chemistry of working as a team
Ralston is internationally active in a number of countries. Personal contact and cooperation are key in getting to know each other and the local market. Allowing space for your business, durable products, and personal contacts between our staff and yourself- that is how we build on each other’s continuity.
Best quality paints, made by passionate crafts people working closely with customers. We have been doing business like this for 100 years now and we want to keep doing it that way. Together with you.
Vision on sustainability
At Van Wijhe Verf, sustainability and innovation are synonymous to progress. Progress starts with our people. As a Dutch family business we develop innovations that genuinely contribute to a better balance between people, planet and profit.
We strive for sustainable innovations in the area of raw materials, extended life cycles for paint products, reducing waste, water usage and CO2 emissions and packaging recycling. These are the theme areas where, at Van Wijhe Verf, we work each day to make a difference.
Marlies van Wijhe
a business woman with flair
Marlies van Wijhe is our fourth generation managing director. She has been at the helm of Van Wijhe Verf since 2000. Marlies was winner of the prestigious award “business woman of the year (prix veuve clicquot) in 2010. On 1 April 2016, paint manufacturer Van Wijhe Verf was privileged to receive the designation ‘Royal’ from Royal Commissioner, Commissaris van de Koning, Ms Ank Bijleveld.
The two spearheads in her policy are innovation and sustainability. This covers both product development and business operations. And, Marlies is a powerful voice for family businesses in the manufacturing industry.