Mechelen-based construction group Willemen Groep has taken a major step forward in its strategic development by acquiring a 50 percent stake in Almex Metaal, a specialist in steel structures for civil engineering.
This move follows a strong financial performance in 2024 and aligns with Willemen’s ambition to consolidate expertise and expand its market position.
Founded in 2006, Almex is located in Essen and operates its own production facility in Hoogstraten. With 26 employees and a 2024 revenue of 15.7 million euros, the company has built a solid reputation for delivering complex steel infrastructure projects across Belgium.
The remaining 50 percent of Almex remains in the hands of founder and managing director Gert Neelen, who will continue to lead the company.
“We’ve worked with Almex on several major projects in recent years and have always enjoyed a smooth, professional collaboration”, says Willemen CEO Marc Jonckheere. “As our civil engineering activities grow – often involving large-scale infrastructure such as steel bridges – it became strategically important to secure reliable steel construction capacity. This partnership came about naturally and strengthens our long-term competitiveness.”
The acquisition comes at a time of renewed momentum for Willemen Groep. After several challenging years, the company reported a consolidated revenue of 756 million euros in 2024, with an EBITDA of 19.9 million euros and a projected net profit of at least 10 million euros. The order book has grown from 1.25 billion euros to 1.7 billion euros.
Willemen also streamlined its internal operations by merging four of its Flemish entities – Cosimco, Franki Construct, Willemen Construct, and Willemen Tools – into a single company, Willemen Bouw, as of April 30. The new entity, employing around 360 people, focuses on civil engineering, industrial projects, and buildings, operating from offices in Kontich and Hasselt.
With its renewed structure and strategic investment in Almex, Willemen Groep is positioning itself for sustainable and profitable growth in a competitive construction market.
