"We are unique in our total concept," says CEO Jeroen Meermans. "Of course, there are other companies in each segment, but the total package allows us to stand out in the way. It's quite relaxing to work with us, because we take a lot out of your hands."
During Festivak, they therefore take care of the entire central fair terrace. In cooperation with the event location, everything has been thought out to perfection: from the pots and pans to a grandiose decoration. The result? The most relaxed networking spot of the year, where you can enjoy yourself and immediately make new contacts.
Several brands under one umbrella
Total-e has long been no stranger to the scene. "We once started as Total Event Support, a total concept within one brand. But we soon noticed that customers didn't come just for signing or just for rental. That is why we set up different brand names, so that we can offer separate components, but at the same time have strong cooperation between the departments," says Jeroen.
Under the Total-e umbrella, you'll find Festarent (rental), Catch the Eye (print & signing), Blente (lighting & sound) and The Poolhouse (studios & content creation), among others.
"That cross-pollination is our strength," Jeroen emphasizes. "Meanwhile, we have grown into an ecosystem of specialists. Think of everything for catering, decor, signing, video, lighting, sound, you name it. No separate links, but one team that is perfectly attuned to each other."
Cross-fertilization and horizontal work policy
The team now numbers about 70 people and works under a horizontal policy. That means that on busy days you can set up chairs just as well, even as an office worker.
"Sometimes you notice that someone is not quite in their place. With us, advancement doesn't have to be linear: you can also move horizontally within the organization. For example, are you not comfortable in transport, but feel more at home in decor? Then such a transition is perfectly possible. We like to respond to someone's interests and stage of life."
This mentality also translates to collaboration. Internally, everything is seen as one company, and that makes for a real win-win situation.
Most sustainable in business
At Total-e, sustainability is not just a slogan but a daily choice. "Four years ago, during corona, we realized that we were not necessarily necessary. That made us think," Jeroen says, "we want to grow into the most sustainable partner in our sector and are working purposefully on that through the Voka Charter Sustainable Business. Setting annual goals, measuring, adjusting and improving again." In concrete terms, this means that Total-e is committed to their own green energy, smart energy management, second-life materials and reusable (or recyclable) prints, low-emission transport and avoiding disposable plastic. In processes, too, they choose to reuse and donate usable residual materials.
Sustainable business is sometimes more expensive and not always easy to pass on. But we believe in it, and implement it consistently."
That consistent approach makes all the difference, because increasingly, this sustainable path is partly decisive in customers' choice.
Trends and challenges
That sustainability is still a hot topic, Jeroen agrees: "Sustainability is definitely at the forefront." But other trends and developments are also fighting for a place in the spotlight. As an organizer, you need a specific mindset for that: to be flexible and constantly respond to new things. "Trends follow each other faster and faster and everyone always wants never seen before," says Jeroen.
And there are also challenges on the economic front. Higher labor costs, the war on talent and more expensive catering all have an impact. "But we always turn to the opportunities that are out there."
Renting out an entire village? Why not!
Through daring, a large dose of creativity and diversity, the most impressive new opportunities are created. This not only yields beautiful commissions, but also projects in places you would never expect.
We once hired out an entire village in England for a wedding," says Jeroen. "That even made the New York Times.
In addition, flexibility is just as important. Jeroen laughs, "There was once a customer who had mistaken the date. We had to build a day early. For a production that we would normally do with eight people, we suddenly found ourselves there with forty people just to get it done on time. Chaos? Definitely. But also a memorable moment afterwards!"
Festivak x Total-e
For two days you can find Total-e at Festivak this year. "It's one big networking event. For me it's pure luxury to have a booth there, it saves me six months of appointments and driving around."
It is a great opportunity to meet a huge number of people in a short time in a casual atmosphere. Moreover, Jeroen laughingly says, "If you're not there as an event professional, you don't really belong anymore."
Meet Jeroen and Total-e at booth #222 and admire in real-time their work on the fair terrace.
