Customer speaks: Freerk Fokkema of Prokan

At Meubelfabriek de Valk, we think it is important to be close to our customers and share their experiences. We recently spoke to Freerk Fokkema, account manager at Prokan, a company specialising in office design in the north of the Netherlands. We talked about his work, the challenges in his industry and how Meubelfabriek de Valk contributes to his success.

Introducing: Freerk Fokkema and Prokan

Freerk has been working at Prokan since 2019 from the Groningen office. "Prokan has been around for more than 25 years now. We focus on office project furnishing, as well as office supplies and machines," says Freerk. The growth within Prokan is mainly in office design, where Freerk and his team work on complete solutions for companies, municipalities and other institutions in the northern provinces.

"We aim for satisfied customers and try to design an office so that people can work pleasantly and healthily," says Freerk. "Sustainability and ergonomics play an important role in this. And what I personally like is that customers approach us again when they need something new again."

Cooperation with Meubelfabriek de Valk

Prokan has been working with furniture factory de Valk for quite some time. "How exactly we ended up at de Valk, I don't remember. But I don't really know of any other company in the Netherlands in your field that does the same thing," says Freerk. He particularly appreciates the personal contact and reliability. "What is delivered is good, and if there is a problem, it is solved quickly."

Freerk describes Meubelfabriek de Valk as a partner who thinks along with him. "De Valk supplies products that can take a beating. That's important, because a lot of what we order is used intensively, such as canteen tables and chairs that are regularly moved. With de Valk, we know for sure that it's just right."

The power of local production

Another point that appeals to Freerk is local production. "What I appreciate is that de Valk is a Dutch company. You know you get a sustainable product, made in the region. That's important, both for us and for our customers," Freerk explains. He adds: "If something is broken, I know it will be fixed quickly. You don't have to wait for someone from another province to come. Those short lines of communication are really worth their weight in gold."

Trends and challenges in office design

According to Freerk, the demand for complete solutions for offices has increased significantly. "Customers don't just want furniture, but a total concept, including flooring, window coverings and accessories. Sustainability also plays a big role. For example, chairs whose parts you can replace rather than throw away - that's what customers increasingly want."

This is where Freerk sees opportunities for Meubelfabriek de Valk. "There are still so many opportunities to further capitalise on trends such as multifunctional furniture and acoustic solutions. For example, by developing more modular furniture that can be used flexibly."

Freerk's advice to others

When asked what he would advise other companies considering working with Meubelfabriek de Valk, Freerk is clear: "If you want carefree delivery and want to be sure your customers are satisfied, de Valk is the perfect choice. The material is durable, the service is top-notch and the contact personal. You know you don't have to go back every other time for repairs, and that also makes it much easier for us as suppliers."

An inspiring partnership

The conversation with Freerk shows how important cooperation and reliability are in the world of office furniture. At Meubelfabriek de Valk, we are proud of customers like Prokan, who use our products with confidence and recognise the value of locally and sustainably produced furniture.

Wondering what we can do for your office design? Contact us or drop by our showroom. Together we will work on a sustainable and comfortable working environment for everyone.