Family business with a unique history

The story of Sijne Nauta

The story of Nauta begins in 1939 in Almelo, where founder Sijne Nauta was born. After completing secondary school and a brief period in military service, he attempted to study in Rotterdam. When this didn’t work out, he decided to become a sales representative and eventually start his own business – without a business plan but with unwavering determination. Armed with a rented Borgward Isabella Combi, he began his entrepreneurial journey. His first goal: to return the car empty at the end of the day – making sales was essential.

Watch the video alongside to hear Sijne Nauta’s story, illustrated with beautiful historical footage!

In 1971, he found a suitable building on the Zevenbergjesweg: a former chicken coop that was transformed into the beating heart of Nauta. The business grew quickly, using trade fairs in Brussels and Cologne as stepping stones to international recognition. Customers, he said, deserve to be welcomed just as well as they treat their own clients throughout the year.

In the early years, Sijne's wife managed the administration. Her meticulous handwriting and eye for detail were indispensable to the bookkeeping. Their son, Wybe Jan, grew up in the family business, starting with small tasks like filling key bags before eventually taking over from his father.

Sijne and Wybe Jan worked together in harmony for many years, with mutual respect and trust enabling a smooth transfer of responsibilities.

Sijne Nauta kijkt met trots terug op wat is bereikt: “Wat Wybe Jan, Els, en het hele team hebben opgebouwd, is fantastisch. Ik ben dankbaar dat ik dit mag meemaken.” Wybe Jan sluit zich hierbij aan en kijkt vol vertrouwen vooruit. 

Met 60 jaar achter de rug, wenst het team van Nauta nog minstens zoveel jaren van groei, gezondheid en succes – samen met hun klanten, medewerkers en partners. Zoals Sijne altijd zegt: “The sky is the limit.”