Leading Producer of Frozen Fish Concepts Embraces Innovative, Step-by-Step Digitalization With Cloud-Based Food ERP

Platvis Holland Opts for Professionalization of Its Business Operations

What once began as a traditional fish filleting company has evolved into one of Europe’s leading producers of IFS-certified frozen fish products with added value. By combining a wide variety of fish species and coating ingredients, Platvis Holland responds flexibly to ever-changing market demands.

The company sources its raw materials worldwide—from frozen fish to filleted products—and adds value through various processing steps such as breading, dusting and pre-frying. In addition, Platvis Holland produce cooked products—so-called ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat fish items—that are suitable for immediate consumption or easy preparation.

To make these complex production processes more efficient and future-proof, Platvis Holland is transitioning to a cloud-based food ERP system, which allows for even better management of the production and logistics process. This enables Platvis Holland, from concept to finished product, to respond optimally to the needs and concepts of its customers. At their factory in Edam, they ensure that the desired products reach catering companies, retails and supermarkets in the correct packaging, with Southern Europe as its largest market.

From Craftsmanship to Automation: A Strategic Step Forward

To manage the increasing complexity of production and logistics, Platvis Holland has been using an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system from Aptean for several years, but yet had to digitize certain processes. Recently, the company took the next step: migrating to Aptean Food & Beverage ERP in the cloud.

This industry-specific, cloud-based solution offers greater flexibility, eliminates dependence on local servers and ensures a future-proof business operation.By working with the latest Aptean food ERP solution, Platvis Holland always has access to the most up-to-date software versions through automatic updates—allowing the company to remain agile and innovative in a dynamic market.

Realistic Digitalization: Progress Step by Step

Platvis Holland’s ambition was clear: a cloud-based ERP system that streamlines production, ensures food safety and complies with all regulations. However, a full and immediate transition from traditional, manual processes to a modern digital system proved to be quite a challenge.

As a relatively small company with a compact team accustomed to hands-on work methods, a radical shift wasn’t realistic. “You have to be ready for such a change,” says Jan Plat, Chief Operating Officer at Platvis Holland. “We want to move forward, but such a major transformation also needs to remain feasible.”

Therefore, the company opted for a pragmatic, phased implementation. In close collaboration with Aptean, the core modules for sales, purchasing, production management, inventory and finance were implemented first, while some processes are still partly paper-based. This approach keeps the organization flexible and maintains oversight while gradually adapting to digital workflows.

Smart Optimization: Small Steps, Big Impact

A great example is the improvement in goods receiving. By using custom labels and scanning during production, data is now captured and measured efficiently. “We aim to achieve maximum results with minimal adjustments,” Plat explains. “Aptean collaborates closely with us and tailors the solution to our needs, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.”

Mapping out the next steps is a continuous process, as the company carefully evaluates where further digitalization will deliver added value. Adopting additional modules in the future is therefore well within reach.

Employee Engagement as the Foundation for Success

A successful ERP implementation isn’t just about technology—it’s also about people and culture. For Platvis Holland, it was essential to involve employees throughout the process. “It takes time and attention to help everyone become comfortable with the new system,” Plat notes. “You have to respect existing routines and then gradually introduce new ways of working.”

By demonstrating how the system simplifies day-to-day operations, the company created strong employee buy-in. This led to a positive atmosphere and smooth adoption of the new workflows.

Ready for the Future

With a solid foundation in place, Platvis Holland is well-positioned to continue its phased growth and expand its use of Aptean’s food ERP system in the coming years. For now, the focus is on optimizing existing modules and capturing the “low-hanging fruit.”

According to Plat, the successful implementation is largely due to the strong partnership with Aptean: “We see Aptean as a knowledgeable and committed partner that helps us achieve measurable results in the direction we’ve chosen. We always receive the support we need, with solutions that truly fit our organization. That’s exactly what you look for in a reliable partner.”

If you’re ready to start the conversation of implementing Aptean Food & Beverage ERP for your food and beverage company, feel free to reach out to us today. We can help answer your questions and determine what’s right for your situation, and you can also request a personalized demo.