Close to our neighbours, connected to the neighbourhood
For many years, the Raffinerie Tirlemontoise has had branches in or near town centres, such as Tienen, Merksem, and Wanze. Our sites are often within walking distance from residential areas — which nurtures a sense of community and responsibility.
We strongly value an open and respectful relationship with our neighbours. That is why we communicate in a transparent way about what goes on within our company, and actively listen to the neighbourhood. We take questions and suggestions very seriously, and always try to engage in open dialogue to reach satisfactory solutions.
We also like to literally keep an open door. In Tienen we have participated in Open Company Day and Agriculture Day. In Merksem, visitors could take a look behind the scenes during Open Monuments Day. In Wanze, we regularly organise family and neighbour days. This gives people the opportunity to discover up close what we do, how we work, and what we stand for.
Those who are curious about our operations in Tienen may visit the factory there.
Our connection to the city extends further than our production. Since 2024, we have welcomed Suikerrock at our site in Tienen, after the Great Market Square got too small for the growing festival. A fine example of how cooperation between companies and local governments can lead to new possibilities — in the heart of the neighbourhood.
We also work daily on a durable operation, with attention tot reducing our ecological footprint. For example our investments in energy efficiency, the reuse of residual flows, and the reduction of odour and noise pollution.
After all, only by working together with our community can we remain a valued and respected neighbour in the long term.
Visit our factory in Tienen
Curious how sugar is made? We would gladly show you! During the beet campaign, from October to December, we are opening the doors to our factory. Our guides will take you behind the scenes and explain step by step how sugar is extracted from sugar beets.
Do you wish to report odour nuisance?
With sugar factories, it unfortunately sometimes happens that odours are released. We do our utmost to keep this to a minimum and to respond quickly when it occurs. Are you experiencing odour nuisance? Let us know so that we can take targeted action.
