Derk Buisman was the founder of Buisman C.V. and started the butter trading business in Leeuwarden, located in the north of the Netherlands.

The son of Derk Buisman joins his father’s company. In these years butter was still packaged in wooden barrels.

In 1902 the dairy factory “Erica” was established in Zelhem. In 1976 this factory would be acquired by VIV, with whom Royal Buisman C.V. would merge years later, in 2009.

In 1921 Roelof Buisman received the title “Knight of Orange-Nassau” by Queen Wilhelmina. He received this title as a reward for his contributions to society, the state and the royal household.

In 1967 the Van Ballegooijen family acquired VIV. VIV was originally active in the production of egg products. Shortly after the takeover, VIV became active in the production of butter ghee and butter oil.

At the 100-year anniversary Buisman C.V. received the predicate “Royal” by Queen Juliana. This honorary title is granted to companies that are leading in their field of expertise and have national importance.

The Van Ballegooijen family acquires Royal Buisman C.V. and relocates the butter trading business to Wijk en Aalburg.

In 2000 the new butter factory opens in Zelhem. Fun fact: During the opening a tank of cream broke, 70 tons of cream escaped and ended on the floor.

The largest butter oil separation installation in Europe is installed in Zelhem.