Entropia

Pioneer in secure radio communications

Entropia started in 1990 under the name CED-Communications and has since developed into the reference in secure radio telecommunications. With its own network covering Belgium and the Netherlands, the company provides critical communication solutions to sectors where reliability is essential. Once a small-scale project founded by Philip Vercruysse, it is now a high-tech family business run by Ina Broodcooren. 
 

From cargo to communication 

Ina joined the company in 1997, having previously gained experience in the logistics sector, including with East African Cargo at Brucargo Zaventem. Her background in exports, particularly to Rwanda and Burundi, proved valuable to Entropia as the company began to expand its radio communications network.  

“I went through a lot here,” Ina says. Initially focusing on business administration and accounting, she soon developed a passion for human resources. That human side, she says, is one of the keys to Entropia’s success. By maintaining personal contact with co-workers and keeping HRM in-house, Entropia retains its identity as a family-owned company, even as it grows. 

Innovative and unique: Entropia’s niche strategy

Entropia operates in a very specific niche market. With a fully self-built radio communication network, they offer a unique solution for companies that depend on secure and constant communication. Ina says they don’t actually have any direct competitors. “Where other companies only set up temporary radio communication networks for specific projects, Entropia offers a permanent network with full nationwide coverage in both Belgium and the Netherlands.”

Entropia takes care of everything for the client by offering a subscription formula where clients pay a fixed amount for 24/7 service, network management, and support. “We make sure our clients don’t have to deal with the hassle of permits and always know exactly where they stand financially,” explains Ina. This model offers stability and predictability, which is essential for companies that rely on constant communication. 

Life-saving services

This Oostkamp company’s clients are mainly in sectors where communication can literally save lives, including security, petrochemicals, utilities that rely on telemetry, and much more. In addition, Entropia plays an important role in the ports and offshore industry, where they provide communications between the mainland and offshore platforms, as well as in logistics during the loading and unloading of ships. 

The network of more than 500 antenna masts supports not only voice communication, but also sensors that monitor drinking water underground to a depth of up to 130 metres, for example. Entropia’s technology also makes it possible to link control rooms to employees on site via emergency buttons, ensuring the safety of co-workers in high-risk environments. This extensive availability in critical sectors clearly shows the value of their reliable network. 

Flexible growth 

Despite the company’s growth and internationalisation, Entropia remains firmly anchored in its roots as a family-run business. “We know our clients and suppliers personally,” remarks Ina. The personal contact, combined with the fact that many co-workers have been with the company for years, ensures in-depth knowledge of client files. “We can therefore respond quickly when there are problems, which is a big advantage in our field,” she adds. 

While the personal touch remains a key asset, the company’s growth has also led to more structure. Job profiles are clearly defined, allowing new clients to quickly find their way to the right people within the company. The balance between personal commitment and professionalisation allows Entropia to grow further without losing the connection with clients and co-workers. 

Investing in sustainability

Sustainability is taking on an increasingly more important role within Entropia. Ina immersed herself in the topic by taking courses at KU Leuven and Vlerick, where she learned how companies can reduce their impact on the environment and boost sustainable growth. “Sustainability covers a wide range, from biodiversity and environmental stewardship to finding sustainable financial partners,” she says. 

For Entropia, this means they are actively working to reduce their energy consumption and switch to green energy where possible. Although their plants consume a lot of energy, the company is constantly optimising efficiency and reducing their environmental impact. This is becoming increasingly important as large clients with Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) obligations are likely to hold them accountable for their sustainability initiatives in the future. 

A dynamic team with vision for the future 

The company attracts many young engineers who are given the opportunity to specialise and grow. “Young people deal with work differently than in the past. They value their work-life balance more,” Ina explains. The company also offers a lot of training and motivates its employees to keep developing in both hard and soft skills. By embracing this new mindset, Entropia succeeds in providing an inclusive and pleasant working environment for both younger and older employees.  

Entropia is a textbook example of how a family business can grow into a market leader in a specific niche, without losing its personal values and commitment. With a focus on reliable, secure communications and a growing awareness for sustainability, the company continues to innovate and adapt to the changing market. Whether for critical communications in petrochemicals, ports, or government projects, the company provides reliable solutions that can be vital. Their forward-looking approach and strong family values provide the perfect foundation for further growth and success. 

Entropia colleagues

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This article is part of our 10-part series on sustainable entrepreneurship within family businesses. In our book ‘Huis van vertrouwen / Trésors de famille’, 10 inspiring family businesses share their story and look on the future. 

You can find the book in all bookstores or on the Pelckmans website: 

To realise the further growth of Entropia, BDO's experts assist the company with our multidisciplinary expertise.