Belgian software studio Panenco has acquired Inect, an AI specialist based in Haasrode. The transaction strengthens Panenco’s positioning as an AI-driven software partner for scale-ups and corporates, while expanding its team to around 40 specialists.
Founded more than a decade ago, Panenco has built a reputation around a “quality over quantity” approach, focusing on high-impact digital products.
With the acquisition, advanced artificial intelligence will be embedded more deeply across its services, from product ideation and data engineering to the development and maintenance of large-scale platforms.
Inect, led by founders Bjarne Desmet and Gus Vanherf, and supported by COO Harris Van der Stighelen, has grown rapidly as a boutique AI player with expertise in machine learning, computer vision and generative AI.
According to Panenco founder Egwin Avau, the strategic fit was clear from the outset: “Inect shares our boutique mentality. By merging their AI expertise with our product know-how, we enable clients to build not just digital products, but the smartest products in their industry.”
The deal brings ten AI specialists into Panenco and supports the group’s ambition to move towards 5 million euros in consolidated revenue. Inect’s clients will gain access to Panenco’s broader software engineering capabilities, while Panenco’s customers benefit from a faster route to advanced AI implementation.
Harris Van der Stighelen will continue within the combined organisation as a Product Manager. Panenco now operates with teams in Leuven, Antwerp and Kyiv, and says it will continue to invest in talent and long-term client relationships as it builds its next growth phase.
