In 1909, the Central Bureau, also popularly known as “CeBe” opened its inaugural Rotterdam branch. In that year, grain and cattle cakes were traded on the Rotterdam Stock Exchange for the first time. In 1914, with the permission of the Ministry of Agriculture and Industry, maize was bought and imported for the first time for its own account, thus laying the foundation for today’s Cefetra. In 1919 the headquarters of the CB moved from the east of the country to Rotterdam on the Haringvliet. In the 1920s, the production of compound feed, poultry feed to be precise, was started in the Rijnhaven in Rotterdam.
About us
At Cefetra, our 125+ years of experience serve as the cornerstone for building future success. We are committed to addressing the most significant challenges of our time. Let us share our journey: Where we have been and where we are headed.
Cefetra, located in Rotterdam, has been a trusted supplier of agricultural raw materials to the animal nutrition and energy industries for over 125 years. Our deep roots in agriculture and international trade enable us to deliver excellence in quality, safety and sustainability.
Our strength lies in crafting efficient supply chains, underpinned by world-class logistics that seamlessly connect suppliers worldwide with our clients across Europe. We prioritize high nutritional standards and place food safety at the forefront of our operations. Transparency is a cornerstone of our approach, ensuring our partners are always well-informed about the supply chain. Committed to sustainability, we work only with partners who share our dedication to sustainable practices throughout the entire supply chain.
Our goal
Our goal is to build efficient, repeatable, profitable, and responsible sustainable supply chains. We aim to connect independent suppliers with our customers across Europe, so that every link in the chain contributes to a more sustainable future.
At Cefetra, we nurture true partnerships with both suppliers and customers, based on trust.
Company history
Cefetra’s history goes back to 1899, when the ‘Central Bureau’ was founded in Enschede, with the aim of helping the local united farmers and its so-called purchasing associations to buy fertilizers.
From agricultural importer…
… to the largest agricultural distributor in the Netherlands.
After the war, the cooperative started processing and large-scale distribution of agricultural products. In 1962 the Central Bureau moved to the Blaak and the name was changed to CEBECO. In 1972 it merged with the HANDELSRAAD (Trade Council) and was given the name CEBECO – HANDELSRAAD. CEBECO – HANDELSRAAD was by far the largest player in the field of agricultural trade, distribution and processing in the Netherlands.
From CEBECO to Cefetra
In 1988 CEBECO Feed Trading was established. It specialized in importing raw materials from outside the EU to Dutch cooperative compound feed producers and during the 1990s grew into an international player in the raw materials trade with branches all over Europe. In 2002 Cebeco Feed Trading BV changed its name to Cefetra BV and we moved to ‘de Willemswerf’ in Rotterdam. You will still find us here.
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Our culture & values
At Cefetra, we pride ourselves on being responsive and attentive to our clients’ needs. Our streamlined and efficient operations allow us to act swiftly and effectively. Leveraging our extensive network and finely-tuned supply chains, we ensure timely deliveries—precisely when they’re needed.
What truly sets us apart is our rich history, our collaborative approach to partnerships and our commitment to working closely with our clients. Throughout it all, we maintain a steadfast focus on quality, safety and sustainability, never losing sight of our responsibility to our planet.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate Social Responsibility is integral to our goal, where we prioritize a balanced approach to people, planet and profit. We are dedicated to making a positive difference in society through sustainable practices and community involvement. Our commitment is reflected in our active support of initiatives like partnering with NL Cares and Volunteer Shop Rotterdam, who organized gift packages which Cefetra delivered to lonely elderly during Christmas.
NL Cares helps companies fulfil their social mission through impactful, targeted programmes. Here are some of our NL Cares & Cefetra highlights:
- Bingo evening with elderly
Volunteering at one of NL Cares’ bingo evening for the elderly, bringing joy and personal attention to the participants.
- Creative evening
Volunteering at an evening school for people with disabilities, providing extra support and enjoying the activities together.
- Technology-themed evening
Volunteering at a technology-themed evening for children at CJV Feijenoord, creating a fun and educational experience.
- Gardening
Volunteering with various gardening tasks at a food garden in Rotterdam.
Interested in partnering with us?
If you are a volunteering organisation and would like to collaborate with us on volunteering initiatives, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can make a difference!