From A.V.V. to Arvesta: the history of 125 years of Arvesta
The story of Arvesta and its 40 strong brands began as a cooperative initiative by a group of forward-thinking agricultural pioneers. Today, some five generations later, Arvesta has grown into a leading player in the agricultural and horticultural sector.
Thanks to our expertise and knowledge sharing, we are a total supplier of solutions for our professional customers in agriculture and horticulture, but also for our retail customers. With a strong focus on digitization, sustainability, and innovation, we are building on our mission every day: From Field to Future.
1901: Founding of the A.V.V.
At the end of the 19th century, farmers began to organize themselves. They started working together on purchasing and sales in order to protect themselves against economic uncertainty and to obtain better prices. On January 19, 1901, the Aankoop- en Verkoop Vennootschap van de Belgische Boerenbond (A.V.V.) was founded, the predecessor of Arvesta. Collaboration as a source of strength has been in our DNA from the very beginning.
First half of the 20th century: Growth despite times of crisis
Even in times of crisis and war, Arvesta, then still called A.V.V., continued to support farmers. When the economy cautiously recovered in the 1920s, the agricultural market grew again and the organization expanded its activities. New production locations were added, including its own animal feed factory in Merksem, a dairy auction in Hasselt, and a butter mine in Brussels. By the end of the 1920s, A.V.V. had 190 local warehouses, mainly in Flanders.
1950s - 1960’s: Technological advances transform the sector
The post-war period was followed by a period of modernization. A.V.V. introduced new machinery, feed, and fertilizers. Agriculture became increasingly modern and efficient. In the 1950s and 1960s, the site in Merksem was modernized and a new branch was opened in Aalter. A grain reception and sorting facility was set up in Landen. In the mid-1970s, the first A.V.V. garden centers opened, and in that same year, Cofabel, the importer of John Deere agricultural machinery, became part of the A.V.V. group.
Mid-1970s to 1990s: Professionalization and expansion
From the 1970s onwards, A.V.V. took a new step towards professionalization. Animal feed, seeds, plant nutrition, and plant protection became the focus. The managers of the agricultural Aveve stores formed an important link in sales to professional customers. In 1984, A.V.V. was renamed AVEVE. AVEVE focused on direct sales to farmers. During the same period, the first domestic acquisitions took place, expanding A.V.V.'s range and expertise.
Late 1990s, early 2000s: A period of strong growth
Through successive acquisitions and participations, AVEVE grew from 35 entities (‘operating companies’) in 1995 to no fewer than 60 entities in 2000. It became a versatile, widely diversified organization within agriculture, horticulture, and retail: AVEVE became the AVEVE Group. This growth laid the foundation for the Arvesta we know today: locally anchored and with a strong (inter)national network with deep-rooted expertise.
2018: From AVEVE to Arvesta
In 2018, AVEVE was renamed Arvesta: a modern umbrella name under which numerous strong brands could continue to grow. With innovations in the animal feed sector, but also in agriculture, horticulture, and retail activities, we are continuing on our course toward the agriculture of the future.
2026: Arvesta celebrates 125 years
In 2026, Arvesta will celebrate its 125th anniversary, a milestone that symbolizes five generations of expertise, entrepreneurship, and progress. What began as an initiative to empower farmers has grown into a dynamic knowledge company that is helping to shape the future of agriculture. 125 years of Arvesta: Five generations of expertise. One mission. From Field to Future: Our local experts with a passion for agriculture guarantee a sustainable future for our farmers and gardeners with pragmatic and innovative solutions. The result: better returns for our customers, satisfied shoppers in our unique stores, and healthy, sustainable food on the table.