With great sadness, but with gratitude for what he meant to all of us, we announce the passing of Wim Joos, honorary chairman of Group Joos.
Wim Joos passed away on Saturday 29 April 2023 at the age of 89. He was managing director of Drukkerij Joos from 1960 to 1999. Thanks to his entrepreneurship and drive, Drukkerij Joos grew into one of the leading printing companies, and he laid the foundations for the later development of Group Joos.
Every colleague who worked with him remembers the phrase "A team with a task for the future". "Mr Wim" ensured that the company always worked with the future in mind. He was a trendsetter in the graphics industry.
Besides his fifth child, his printing company, Wim Joos was also actively engaged in the business world. As chairman of the former VKW Kempen, he took on the role of chairman of VKW Antwerpen-Brabant.
As the first chairman of the former Strategic Plan Kempen, he helped shape the further development of his region, the Kempen.
And as a founding member and first chairman of VIGC, the Flemish Innovation Centre for Graphic Communication, he embraced the Flemish resources to help shape an impactful organisation.
Wim Joos was also, often quietly, important to various social organisations and initiatives. Through Alito, he combined entrepreneurship with social engagement, supporting people who struggle to find employment.
We can look back with pride on a rich and impactful life led by Wim Joos. Our thoughts are with him and his family, his friends and colleagues who worked closely with him. All of us, and many with us, will miss him.
