The Family Business Impact Award, a source of inspiration for others

The core mission of the Family Business Impact Award is to honor Belgian family businesses that go beyond traditional corporate success to create meaningful societal impact in Belgium.

This is not a competition nor the Olympics of Sustainability of Philanthropy it is an excuse to showcase inspiring examples and learn from each other.

By recognizing the unique synergy between a family and its business—through core operations, impact investing, philanthropy, and public policy engagement—the Award celebrates how shared values and long-term commitment can drive positive change.

It is not just about good business practices; it’s about redefining responsible entrepreneurship and highlighting the enduring legacy of family businesses that contribute to a better, more sustainable future for Belgium.

 

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2025 Laureates

 

A heartfelt thank you to the many diverse and courageous applicants. Many families also told us they were just beginning their journey, and hope to participate in future editions, demonstrating the Award’s role in encouraging reflection and progress.

We are proud to announce our three finalists:  

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Founded in 1863 by Belgian industrialists, Immobel has evolved from a traditional real estate company into Belgium’s largest listed urban developer. A new era began in 2014 when the Galle family’s Allfin Group acquired a major stake, followed by a 2016 merger that expanded operations across six countries. Under Marnix Galle’s leadership as Executive Chairman, with two of his sons involved, Immobel combines a 160-year legacy with a humanist, purpose-driven vision. Guided by sustainability and long-term impact, the company aims to create inclusive, resilient, and future-proof cities – For Cities, For People.

La Lorraine Bakery Group (LLBG) is a 100% family-owned Belgian milling and bakery company, producing a wide range of authentic bakery products. With over 5,300 employees, LLBG serves consumers, retailers, and the foodservice sector in more than 35 countries, operating 18 production sites. Driven by passion, innovation, and entrepreneurship, LLBG aims for long-term value creation and sustainable growth. In 2024, the Group achieved €1.46 billion in revenue, continuing its mission to be not only a bigger, but above all a better company—for people, partners, and the planet.

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In 1925, founder Jaak Vandersanden laid the foundation of the family company, driven by craftsmanship. After WWII, his son Constant took over, expanding the business through a people-oriented, innovative, and entrepreneurial approach. In the 1990s, his son-in-law Jean-Pierre Wuytack continued this growth, turning Vandersanden into an international leader and pioneer in sustainability and innovation. A century later, Vandersanden employs 800 people and is the largest family-owned producer of facing and paving bricks in the Benelux. With long-term vision, integrity, and four active family members on a mainly family-based board, Vandersanden remains 100% family-owned—guided by optimism, innovation, and a deep care for people, society, and the environment.

Selection Criteria

  • Societal or Environmental Impact
    The initiative must generate a clear positive impact on society or the environment that goes beyond the family business's core commercial activities.

  • Belgian-Based
    The initiative must take place in Belgium or have a significant impact within Belgium.

  • Family Involvement and Leadership
    The initiative must demonstrate active engagement and leadership from family members, including the strategic use of their time, network, or resources. Purely financial donations or passive involvement are not sufficient.

  • Long-Term Commitment
    The initiative must be part of a sustained effort, reflecting a long-term commitment to change rather than a one-off project.

  • Beyond Internal Practices and Compliance
    Internal sustainability efforts (e.g. emission reduction, responsible procurement) and ESG compliance (e.g. sustainability reporting) are not sufficient on their own. The initiative should extend beyond the company’s internal operations.

  • Beyond Communication Efforts
    Projects must be rooted in impact, not solely in public relations, reputation management, or family business branding.

  • Systemic Change
    Preference is given to initiatives that aim to shift industry standards, address root causes, or contribute to systemic change.

  • Type of Candidacy
    The candidacy can be a single high-impact initiative or a portfolio of impact-driven projects. In both cases, the broader, long-term sustainability commitment of the family business will be taken into account to ensure the initiative is part of a meaningful and enduring impact strategy.

The Jury Committee

Jury Impact Award

The jury is chaired by Frédéric Wirtz (Chair of the Red Cross of Belgium) and composed by strong and independent personalities with complementary expertise, ensuring, very important to all involved, the full independence from FBN Belgium.

The only FBN representant was Olivia Macharis (G4 VPK and member of the Impact Circle Committee), securing that the DNA of family businesses remained top of mind. The other members were:

  • Sabine Denis (Louvain School of Management & KU Leuven),
  • François de Borchgrave (KOIS)
  • Luc Tayart de Borms (former CEO, King Baudouin Foundation).)

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Chair: Frédéric Wirtz, Chair Red Cross Rouge

Frédéric Wirtz is an experienced management consultant with over 30 years in strategy and organizational performance.
He spent nearly 20 years at Arthur D. Little, where he led the Benelux region and a global management buyout.
Since 2008, he has been CEO of The Little Group, advising clients worldwide.
He serves on several boards and is Chairman of the Belgian Red Cross.
He holds degrees from Antwerp University and Indiana University and has published in major business journals.

 

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François de Borchgrave

Managing Partner, European Operations at KOIS

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Sabine Denis

Sabine Denis

Associate Professor Louvain School of Management and KU Leuven

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Olivia Macharis

Olivia Macharis

Consultant in International Mediation

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Luc Tayart de Borms

Former CEO of the King Baudouin Foundation

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