For a century, Nelissen Bricks has been a cornerstone of the Limburg business community. To mark this milestone, the family company is releasing the commemorative book “100 Years of Nelissen.” This vibrant reference work offers insights into thirty global projects from the past century. Additionally, Marino Keulen, the mayor of Lanaken, is inaugurating the interactive brick museum “Brick Academy,” which will open its doors to the public for two weeks in honor of the centennial celebration.
In 1921, following the destruction of World War I, founder Alfons Nelissen responded to the Belgian government’s request to produce materials for rebuilding the nation. This marked the beginning of a remarkable growth story, now captured in book form.
“A purely historical book can quickly become dull,” explains Roberta Melis, Marketing and Communications Manager at Nelissen. “That’s why we chose to compile the 30 most impressive global projects – along with the juiciest anecdotes – from the past 100 years in our jubilee book. Essentially, the book tells the journey of the brick: we started very locally, then expanded to surrounding regions, and today, we operate in more than 50 countries. We’ve also selected the most beautiful images from our photo archive to illustrate the factory’s and family’s history.”
“Brick Museum Open to the Public for Two Weeks”
Mayor Marino Keulen has already received the first edition of “100 Years of Nelissen.” He also inaugurated the brick museum at Nelissen. “Our Brick Academy has evolved into an interactive brick museum, where we explain how bricks are made – both today and in the (distant) past. You can also marvel at a World War II airplane we discovered during the construction of a new factory hall. To celebrate our anniversary, we’re opening the museum to the public for two weeks,” Roberta explains.
Brick FM and Birthday Cake
Local residents and customers are also joining the celebration. “On the one hand, everyone can tune into the temporary radio station Brick FM at www.brickfm.be or via 91.6 FM (within a 5-km radius of the factory) between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. In recent weeks, people nominated their favorite songs. Naturally, we’re especially curious about tracks with a connection to ‘bricks.’ So, chances are high that ‘Another Brick In The Wall’ or ‘Wonderwall’ will make an appearance,” laughs Roberta.
On the other hand, Nelissen is treating showroom visitors and staff to a delicious slice of birthday cake. Mayor Marino Keulen is among the enthusiasts: “Nelissen’s significance for Lanaken cannot be overstated. Many employees live near the company, and Nelissen pays tremendous attention to fostering good relationships with local residents. The people of Lanaken hope this jewel in our crown will continue on its stellar path for at least another century.”
