1. Impex has been a pioneer in drinking water solutions for poultry farming. How do you ensure that your innovations stay ahead of industry needs?
Impex has always been driven by innovation and a deep understanding of poultry farming needs. We invest continuously in R&D, collaborate with leading Dutch institutions like Wageningen UR and the Poultry Expertise Centre, and conduct practical trials—such as testing nipple flow rates or optimal water pressure. Moreover, we maintain close relationships with poultry farmers globally, which allows us to gather feedback and adapt quickly to market developments. Our acquisition of a German nipple factory over a decade ago, and the investments we’ve made in it since, have significantly enhanced our capacity for innovation and ensured continuity in production.
2. What are the biggest challenges you see in the poultry industry today, especially concerning water management and biosecurity?
Water management is increasingly complex due to stricter regulations, the push for reduced antibiotic use, and biosecurity concerns. One of the biggest threats is biofilm formation in drinking lines, which harbors harmful bacteria and fungi. Impex addresses this with solutions like the I-Flush automatic flushing system and lower flow nipples that reduce spillage and keep litter dry—key to preventing foot lesions and respiratory issues. Ensuring consistently high water quality is not just a technical challenge; it’s essential for animal welfare and production outcomes.
3. Impex has a strong international presence. How do you tailor your drinking water solutions to meet the specific needs of different poultry markets around the world?
Our products are used in over 100 countries, and local adaptation is crucial. Our teams—both at headquarters and through regional branches like Impex USA—work closely with local dealers, farmers, and integrators. For instance, in South America where poultry houses are often built on slopes, we provide custom pressure regulators. In Asia, our collaboration with integrators ensures our solutions meet tropical climate demands. Tailoring is possible because we control both design and manufacturing, and we value long-term relationships where mutual learning takes place.
4. With sustainability becoming a key focus in agriculture, how is Impex contributing to environmentally friendly and resource-efficient water solutions?
Sustainability is embedded in our operations—from product design to manufacturing. Our factory, for example, reuses heat and filters oil to reduce waste, saving thousands of liters annually. On the farm level, our systems reduce water spillage, keeping litter dry and lowering ammonia emissions. Furthermore, our flushing systems use sensors to only activate when necessary, optimizing water use. Sustainability for us is about efficiency, animal welfare, and minimizing environmental impact.
5. As a family-owned business now managed by the second generation, how has Impex evolved over the years while staying true to its core values?
From a small attic in 1971 to a global player today, Impex has always remained true to its core values: reliability, long-term partnerships, and a people-first mindset. Since our founding, we’ve evolved from a trading company into an independent manufacturer and an international knowledge partner in drinking water management. This growth has brought new responsibilities, but our focus remains unchanged: delivering quality, staying close to the farmer, and thinking beyond the product to truly support animal welfare and operational success.
6. With advancements in smart farming technologies, do you see digitalization playing a role in water management solutions for poultry farming?
Absolutely. Digital tools are becoming essential in modern poultry farming. Our flushing systems can already be automated based on real-time sensor data, while integration with farm management software allows for precise monitoring of water intake—an important KPI. By tracking deviations in water consumption, farmers can spot health issues early. We’re also exploring further smart solutions, ensuring farmers can make data-driven decisions easily.
7. What is your vision for the future of Impex, and how do you see the company evolving in the next decade?
Our vision is to be the global reference in drinking water management for animal farming—not just as a supplier, but as a knowledge leader. We aim to expand our smart product range, deepen our sustainability impact, and strengthen global partnerships. As poultry farming evolves towards more antibiotic free farming and efficient systems, we see ourselves playing a key role in helping our customers adapt and thrive.
8. Finally, what message would you like to share with poultry farmers who rely on Impex for their water management needs?
To all poultry farmers: thank you for your trust. You are at the heart of everything we do. We remain committed to supporting your performance and your animals’ well-being. Keep challenging us, sharing your insights, and growing with us. Together, we’ll continue to improve water management—because good water is the foundation for healthy poultry and a successful business.