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This is our history

We were founded by grandfather Jan Bloemers in 1947 to rebuild, sustainably protect vital infrastructure in the Netherlands, creating a basis for a better standard of living and thriving economy. From petrolatum tapes for protecting against rust in 1947, to protecting people and resources, improving efficiency and making business processes sustainable today. This is our history...

The founding

After the devastating Second World War, the Netherlands was recovering. But the underground infrastructure was in terrible shape. It had to be renewed and sustainably protected. Because only reliable distribution of essential resources such as water and energy could improve the population's standard of living and revive the economy. The Haarlem entrepreneur Jan Bloemers saw it as his goal to make a decisive contribution to this.

In 1947, he therefore founded the International Metal Protection Company, or Imbema for short. The aim of the company; to help the Netherlands rebuild its battered infrastructure, protect it permanently and thus make it reliable for a long time.

Jan Bloemers and his staff introduce the Netherlands to DENSO® petrolatum tapes, known in the market as "Densoband". The invention of a Berlin pharmacist, plays a decisive role in protecting underground gas and water pipes from rusting through. We are making a name for ourselves not only in the Netherlands, but also internationally as the company specializing in corrosion protection below and above ground. An expertise we still have and are very proud of. Even petrolatum tapes, in its modern form, is still used.

The office in Mauritsstraat, Haarlem (NL)

Imbema Denso warehouse, Haarlem (NL)

Expansion into industry, transport and logistics and Belgium

Under the leadership of the second generation, Jan's son Robert Bloemers, we are further expanding the range of products and services. Not only for underground, but also for above-ground infrastructure, the water and energy sector, industry, the green and agricultural sector, transport and logistics, road building and construction. Together with technical trading companies, we set up a solid distribution network for our products. From the Erpe-Mere location (currently in Haaltert), we help customers in Belgium and Luxembourg with our products and services.

View our history

This animation showcases the highlights from over 75 years of our company's history, featuring unique archival footage.