What does entrepreneurship mean if your company is not only your work, but an extension of who you are? In episode 17 of the Podcast Truck stop tells Jorg Trippaers, manager of Trippaers Transport in Genk, how he approaches the transport world with authenticity, passion and a clear vision of relationships, health and growth. His story is that from a second generation of entrepreneur who does not separate work and private life, but rather together for a lifestyle.
For Trippaers there is no limit between work and leisure. At the weekend’s office, drinking coffee with drivers or a late evening in a restaurant with customers: for him this is also work as a relaxation. “I see nothing as work and nothing as leisure time. It’s just who we are as a family business,” he says. This approach not only produces strong professional ties, but often also friendly relationships that extend beyond a contract.
According to Trippaers, the transport sector is about more than just cars and journeys. It’s about awarding. He met many of his customers through network events or personal contacts. He emphasizes that trust and understanding form the basis: eating together, talking about their real needs, and building sustainable collaborations from them. “We really want to understand why a customer makes a certain decision or needs a certain transport,” he explains.
Health as a pillar for better entrepreneurship
Despite the busy working life, Trippaers pays a lot of attention to health. He is involved with We‘R Nutrition, a company in nutrition and sports surfements, where he is sitting on the Advisory Board. His goal is to extend that focus to his own drivers: by 2026 he wants to develop a “health zone” in which supplements and well -being are central. “The fresher you are, the better decisions you can make,” says Trippaers.
Although exercising sometimes on the losses of the crowds, physical activity remains essential for him. Snowboarding is a passion: a sport where you are forced to empty your head. It not only gave him pleasure, but also lessons in dealing with people and persevering in difficult circumstances.
Second generation, new insights
As a son in a family business, Trippaers recognizes a lot in other second generation of entrepreneurs. His friendships, such as with the managers of a restaurant in Genk, show how similar the challenges are: the balance with parents, leading a team and continuing to build growth. “We motivate each other by sharing how we approach it, even if we work in completely different sectors,” he says.
Passion for travel and Italy
In addition to transport and sports, Trippaers cherishes a deep bond with Italy. He has been traveling there from an early age, and he dreams of buying a country retreat. Where that will be – Sicily, the Como Lake or Alto Adige – is still open, but it is clear that his love for culture, food and connection is again the common thread.
Authentic entrepreneurship
In the end, Trippaers summarizes his vision in one key word: authenticity. For him, business is not a role, but just being himself, with all the strengths and weaknesses. “There is nothing good or bad. You are who you are. Do what you say and say what you are doing,” he concludes.
