HES International recognizes that maintaining strong relationships with local communities creates lasting value for all involved. Beyond our business activities, we actively invest in partnerships and initiatives that strengthen social connections and demonstrate our long-term commitment to the regions where we operate. Here are the five ways we engage with our local communities:
1. Apprenticeships & Educational Partnerships
Supporting the next generation is a key part of our commitment to local communities and our terminals have developed various forms of initiatives to stay connected with the local schools and educational institutions. For example, our terminals across Poland, the Netherlands and France introduce students to career opportunities, offers vocational internships for maritime students, and collaborates on port-related research projects. In Amsterdam, we maintain active relationships with local schools and training organizations, participating in programs like “Port Mission” that connect students directly with port employers. In Rotterdam, we offer structured vocational training programs (BBL apprenticeships and internships), plus participate in Girls' Day encouraging girls to explore technical careers. In France, we support four apprentices in formal training programs. Our Wilhelmshaven terminal participates in nationwide career guidance events. These initiatives help bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional experience, while actively promoting diversity in the maritime industry.
2. Sports Sponsorships & Local Sporting Events
Sports and physical activity play an important role in strengthening community bonds engagement and promoting well-being. As such, HWTT, in Germany, sponsors the local Wilhelmshaven Handball Club, supports city sporting events like races and runs, providing shirts and catering for participating employees. In Rotterdam, we sponsor multiple local sporting initiatives including the '1/2 van Oostvoorne,' 'Beat the Beach' half marathon, local mountain bike trails, and regional sports clubs. These investments help make sport and physical activity more accessible to the wider community.
3. Charitable Fundraising & Social Impact Partnerships
Another way we give back is by supporting causes that matter to our communities. In Rotterdam, we participate in major fundraising initiatives including 'Spinning for Sophia' supporting Sophia Children's Hospital and 'Slag om Herstel,' a 200 km rowing event supporting recovery and reintegration programs. Across the border in Germany, we organize regular fundraising for local causes ranging from animal shelter support to school and nursery events. Back in the Netherlands, we have been a steadfast sponsor of Stichting Zeemanswelvaren (Seafarers' Welfare Foundation) for many years, providing support to seafarers visiting the Port of Amsterdam. These initiatives reflect our believe that being a good neighbor means supporting those who need help and contributing to the well-being of our communities.
4. Emergency Services Partnership & Community Safety
Strong partnerships with local emergency services help enhance safety for everyone. Across multiple terminals, we maintain ongoing partnerships with regional fire departments, hosting regular training exercises on our premises. These aren't one-off activities; they are long-term commitments strengthening emergency preparedness across the entire region. Several terminals also organize Contractor Safety Days, recognizing that safety is a shared responsibility for everyone working in and around our facilities.
5. Inclusion & Professional Reintegration Programs
We actively create opportunities for people facing barriers to employment and for those seeking to re-enter the work force after significant life events. In France, our workwear is laundered by ESAT (Établissement et Service d’Aide par le Travail), a specialist organization that provides supported employment opportunities for people with disabilities. [KS1] Our French colleagues also partner with Sport Adéquation, which helps athletes building a career after their sport-life. Their discipline, teamwork and commitment are highly transferable to the workplace and are considered valuable assets within our teams.
While reducing our CO2 emissions remains a key sustainability priority, we are equally committed to creating positive social impact and maintaining strong relationships with the communities in which we operate. For more than a century, HES International has put people and the environment first and we remain committed to keeping these values this at the heart of our culture.