Lemahieu Group 115 jaar: 1911 - 2026
What began as a carpentry workshop grew, generation after generation, into a company built on craftsmanship and trust. Four generations later, this story continues to be written, with respect for the past and a vision for the future.
1860
The Origin
Our story begins with the entrepreneurial spirit of Petrus Constantinus Lemahieu (born in 1839). A man with vision, who established a chicory drying facility on his property in Gullegem, alongside a construction company and carpentry workshop.
What began as a small-scale venture grew into a foundation upon which future generations could continue to build.
On the eastern side of his property (to the right), Constant built a large two-storey barn to accommodate the expansion of his construction company and carpentry workshop.
But it soon becomes clear that the ambition extends further. The arrival of the local railway changes everything. For the first time, it becomes possible to transport goods on a larger scale.
These new connections lay the foundations for the next step: the transition into the timber trade. During this same period, Constant also brings his sons, Valère and Remi, into the business.
1911
The first generation: R&V Lemahieu Frères is founded
1911 marks a key milestone in the history of Lemahieu Group. Following the passing of their father, brothers Valère and Remi take the helm and launch a new chapter under the name R&V Lemahieu Frères. Building on the foundation laid before them, they give the company a clearer structure and direction. What had grown organically up to that point takes shape from then on as a true enterprise.
Growth, war and reconstruction
After the First World War, a period of reconstruction followed, which also drove renewed growth at R&V Lemahieu Frères. In 1922, the company modernised further with the installation of a transformer station and the transition to electric motors.
1932
Time for the second generation
In 1932, Remi decided to leave the timber business behind. With a family of four children, none of whom felt drawn to commercial life, he chose to dedicate himself fully to his successful career as an architect.
On the other hand, Valère’s sons, Michel and Antoine, proved to be true entrepreneurs. Together, they established the contracting company Valère Lemahieu & Zonen, carrying on the family tradition.
1944: From Gullegem to Kortrijk
In 1944, another step forward was taken: operations expanded beyond Gullegem, and the company Houtimport Lemahieu was born.
1969
Time for the third generation.
Tony Lemahieu, Michel’s son, enters the story. Tony helps lay the foundations for the transition to a modern family business, where continuity and entrepreneurship go hand in hand. In doing so, he becomes an important link between previous generations and the growth that follows under the next generation.
“My father built something that went far beyond just a business. It was reflected in the way he worked, how he treated people, and how he always kept looking ahead. What he built is still tangible today. For me, it is a great responsibility, but also a source of guidance and stability as I continue to build on his legacy.”
Mike Lemahieu on his father, Tony Lemahieu
1952 - 1988
Roger De Pypere
Between 1952 and 1988, Roger Depypere played a key role in laying the foundations of Lemahieu Group. During the post-war reconstruction period, he became a highly trusted figure, both within and beyond the company.
Together with Michel Lemahieu, he laid the foundations for a rapidly growing organisation. Roger brought structure to complex financial matters and contributed strategic thinking at crucial moments. He was ahead of his time: he spoke Russian to support international trade and was also one of the first to embrace digitalisation, teaching himself to program on Burroughs computers.
As a key figure, Roger played an active role in shaping Lemahieu Group’s story of success and growth.
“Duty and loyalty came naturally to Roger. They weren’t things you had to think about; they were simply part of who you were.”
Mike Lemahieu and Roger De Pypere in 2023.
1976
Growth continues, and in 1975, a strategic relocation from Kortrijk to Ghent brings the company closer to the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal. This location opens up new logistical opportunities and strengthens the company's position in the timber industry.
During this period, Lemahieu takes its final shape, a name that continues to symbolise generations of entrepreneurship, vision and growth to this day.
Daniel Soete (1961 - 2001)
From 1961 to 2001, Daniel Soete was a key figure within Lemahieu Group. As head of finance and accounting, he witnessed the company grow and evolve across several generations.
With his precision, foresight and solution-oriented approach, he provided stability during times of change. What stands out most in his memories is the strong sense of unity and the personal bonds between colleagues. For forty years, Daniel was a quiet but indispensable force behind the success of Lemahieu Group.
"I've known three generations here. And you could feel it: everything was connected, it all just worked."
Daniel Soete
1984 - 1988 - 1994
Acquisition of Deweert in Ostend
In 1984, Lemahieu acquires Deweert in Ostend. This acquisition marks an important step in expanding production capacity and lays the foundation for the further development of its machinery and equipment on a larger scale.
Launch of Lempan
On 27 September 1988, Lempan begins its operations in the Port of Antwerp as a division of Lemahieu Group. From this base, it grows into an international importer of products including plywood, MDF and OSB, sourced from around the world.
It's party time!
When Tony Lemahieu turns 50, the company makes sure this special occasion does not go unnoticed. His milestone birthday is celebrated with a large staff party, bringing colleagues and employees together for a surprise celebration. A festive moment that highlights the strong sense of unity within the company.
During the 1990s, Tony Lemahieu works closely with his wife, Pan Lemahieu. Together, they focus on establishing clear structures and further professionalising the organisation. In particular, they streamline and improve the company's administration. Pan Lemahieu brings greater clarity, efficiency and a solid foundation for continued growth.
“There was always change. But you learned to live with it and, above all, just kept working.”
Jean-Pierre Laleman
Jean-Pierre Laleman (1966-2012)
Jean-Pierre Laleman was a familiar face at Lemahieu Group for 46 years. From machine operator to forklift driver, he grew alongside the company and witnessed the transition from manual labour to modern machinery firsthand. His flexibility, expertise and tireless dedication made him a valued member of the workforce. For Jean-Pierre, one thing mattered above all: getting the job done right.
“For no less than 49 years, he remained loyal to his very first employer.”
Freddy Detailleur (1968-2017)
Freddy Detailleur joined Lemahieu Group in 1968, at just sixteen years old, starting as an errand boy. He worked his way up from assistant and machine operator to foreman, witnessing the company's evolution from manual labour to modern production processes. His craftsmanship, perseverance and straightforward attitude remained unchanged throughout the years. Freddy represents a generation for whom pride in their work and loyalty to the company were fundamental values.
1999-2001
1999 – The Fourth Generation
In 1999, Mike Lemahieu joined the family business as the fourth generation, bringing with him a healthy dose of ambition, but without any illusions that success would come easily. His first years were an intensive learning experience, during which he immersed himself in every aspect of the business.
He not only took on responsibilities across the different sites but also worked hands-on in production, gaining first-hand knowledge of the products. By rolling up his sleeves and getting involved on the shop floor, he built not only expertise but also credibility among employees who had been with the company for many years.
When I started, there was already a strong foundation in place. The groundwork had been laid, and the structure was there. But at the same time, you could feel that there was still so much potential. It wasn't about starting from scratch, but about building on what was already there, with respect for the past and an eye for future growth.
Mike Lemahieu
Modernisation in the 21st Century
Under the leadership of Mike Lemahieu, Lemahieu Group places a strong focus on innovation and modernisation. In 2001, the planing mill in Ostend undergoes a major renovation, an important investment that takes production capacity, efficiency and finishing quality to a new level. This further strengthens the Ostend site’s position as a key part of Lemahieu Group, where craftsmanship and technology go hand in hand.
Ignace Ghyoot (1997-2018)
In 1997, Ignace Ghyoot joined Lemahieu Group almost by chance. Despite his unconventional start, he became a key figure within the company as plant manager in Ostend. With his straightforward approach, strong sense of responsibility and hands-on knowledge of the shop floor, he knew how to turn challenges into solutions. Fair, committed and down-to-earth, Ignace contributed to the day-to-day operations and continued professionalisation of Lemahieu Group for more than twenty years.
Chaos in a company isn't a problem. It's simply something you have to solve.
Ignace Ghyoot
2016
A new dimension in wood preservation
In 2016, Lemahieu Group joins forces with Decolvenaere, united by a shared ambition: LDCwood. A 50/50 joint venture dedicated to the thermal modification of wood, known as ThermoWood®.
This collaboration marks a first for Belgium. For the first time, two established timber importers combine their expertise in a single venture, driven by a shared vision of quality, sustainability and innovation.
