Some sustainability improvements are big strategic shifts; others come from persistent work in the background, supplier choices, packaging details, and transport decisions that determine VMI’s footprint every week. Gerrit van Gils, operates right in that space. He is responsible for selecting transport- and packing suppliers for VMI and stepping in when performance or delivery doesn’t go as planned.
“It’s my job to get it back on track, if needed” he says. That combination, building reliable partnerships and solving issues when they arise, is what he finds most challenging and motivating.
Alongside his transport responsibilities, Gerrit is also active as a packaging specialist, focused on smarter, more efficient packaging and the sustainability of the materials used: reducing material use, improving recyclability, and shifting to alternatives with a better environmental profile.
In transport, Gerrit sees significant opportunities to accelerate sustainability, especially when it comes to reducing emissions from air freight.
“Air freight solves timing—but it comes with a CO₂ price tag. The real challenge is finding a more sustainable route that still keeps our deliveries on time.”
That challenge is exactly what makes the case complex. The extended lead time of sea freight does not always fit the machine planning. The case is therefore not a simple modal switch; it requires balancing sustainability gains with delivery reliability, and planning discipline. Among other things, the topic is currently being handled by the VMI Boost group, which is investigating feasible options to reduce the annual CO₂ emissions linked to air freight to Yantai without compromising customer commitments.
Gerrit also contributes to sustainability initiatives as part of the pillar team Operations. One project he highlights is the change in corrosion protecting machine-wrapping film. The current film is not recyclable; the future solution is a single-layer, recyclable film rather than a multi-layer version. Less complex material and a better end-of-life profile make this a straightforward improvement with tangible benefits.
Looking ahead, Gerrit believes VMI is ahead on the right track, reinforced by VMI achieving the EcoVadis Gold Medal. He expects further progress through close collaboration with suppliers across the chain, with VMI continuing to play a leading role in sustainability within the industry.
Sustainability also shows up at home: Gerrit has solar panels, drives an electric car, and has improved insulation, a lunch box, practical steps that mirror his belief that progress comes from choices you can actually implement.
