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For a NATO exercise in the Netherlands, Boels Rental played a key role in the facility side of the operation. Fast coordination, clear logistics agreements, one point of contact and a complete offering made the difference in this unique NATO project. Joep Joosten from Boels Rental acted as the link between NATO and the Boels organisation.
The challenge: short lead time and limited facilities
NATO has been a customer of Boels Rental both nationally and internationally for many years. Thanks to this strong relationship, the military organisation contacted the Boels account manager for portable kitchens directly.
“That’s right. The initial request was to supply mobile kitchens for an exercise in the Netherlands. The location had very limited facilities—power, water and even sewage were lacking. That’s where we could step in and provide the full picture. Within Boels, we can deliver everything the customer needs. I was able to completely take care of it for them, which was very valuable for my contact at NATO,” says Joep Joosten.
“In an exercise of this scale, everything revolves around deploying as quickly as possible, so we can fully focus on our training objectives. Boels enabled us to create a safe and fully operational environment in a short time.”
— Purchasing & Contracting Officer, NATO
Fast action makes the difference
Why did this approach work so well? “The lead time from first contact to the start of the exercise was relatively short. That required quick action. Fast and clear communication scores points not only in the commercial market, but certainly in defence as well. In a very short time, a large-scale operation involving hundreds of people has to be set up. Everything that can be arranged quickly and efficiently is a big advantage in projects like this.
I see many similarities between our organisations. We ask the right questions, take action and deliver on our promises.
From request to total solution
Later on, it turned out that more facilities were needed to make the exercise a success.
“That’s correct. As the assignment became more concrete, it became clear that in addition to kitchens and power, there was also a need for fencing, a proper access control system, catering and kitchen equipment, and even shower and toilet facilities.
Connecting all systems was also part of the package. I immediately coordinated with my colleagues from Boels Fencing, Boels Party and IQ-Pass to get a full overview. Due to the lack of drainage for both the kitchens and sanitary units, we also supplied separate clean and wastewater tanks.”
The biggest challenge: location and time pressure
The biggest challenge was the location and the short lead time.
“As mentioned, very little was available on-site. Together with the customer, we prepared everything at high speed to provide hundreds of military personnel with the basic facilities needed for a successful exercise. There wasn’t even an option for a site visit. That means you have to listen carefully and act fast. The knowledge and expertise of our people really added value here. Thinking in practical solutions was key. The customer was very satisfied with this approach.”
Collaboration as the key to success
In total, no fewer than seven Boels departments were involved in this project. Joep coordinated this full effort.
“These are the kind of projects where you can truly show the added value of Boels Rental, especially in terms of approach and complexity. And when everything runs smoothly and the customer is satisfied, that makes me proud.”
The result: a successful mission
The exercise has now been completed and most of the Boels equipment has been collected.
“Yes, we have already been in contact with the customer. Once again, we successfully completed this mission together with the entire Boels team. That’s what we do it for.”
