Closure of Koicentrum van Keulen

After a quarter century full of passion and dedication, Koicentrum van Keulen has announced it is closing its doors. The store, located in Nijverdal, will permanently close in August of this year. Harry and Jeroen van Keulen, the driving forces behind the center, say that the increasingly complex regulations surrounding animal welfare and entrepreneurship in the Netherlands have contributed to this decision. They thank their loyal customers for years of trust and hope they will find a new reliable partner to continue their Koi hobby.

read also: Sanke from Van Keulen was very first tosai to ever make it to Grand Champion at European Koi Show

New challenge at Japan Koi Service

Starting in September, Jeroen van Keulen will lend his expertise at Japan Koi Service (JKS). Rob de Vos, owner of JKS, welcomes Jeroen’s arrival and highlights his impressive track record within the European Koi scene. Jeroen has won several prestigious awards, including the Grand Champion title at the Nagaoka Koi Show in Japan. His in-depth knowledge and years of experience make him a valuable asset to the JKS team. In his new role, Jeroen will accompany customers on buying trips, advise on Koi show entries and handle special Koi selections. In addition, he will be the point of contact for azukari Koi.

A life dedicated to Koi

Jeroen van Keulen has dedicated his life to the Koi hobby. In addition to running Koicentrum van Keulen, he has dedicated himself to breeding Koi in the Netherlands. His efforts have resulted in Koi of exceptional quality that have received recognition both nationally and internationally. His commitment to the Koi community is also evident in his role as a judge at various Koi shows, including the All Japan Koi Show.

Koicentrum Sneek follows similar path

Not only Koicentrum van Keulen is ceasing its operations; Koicentrum Sneek has also recently announced its closure. Sander Heijnen, owner of Koicentrum Sneek, has decided to shift his focus to the international expansion of his auction platform and other aspects within the Koi hobby as an employee of another agency in Japan. The physical store in Sneek will transfer its operations to Veldhoven Koi Farm, headed by Rick Veldhoven.

Future Prospect

The shifts within the Dutch Koi scene mark the end of an era, but also the beginning of new opportunities. For both Jeroen van Keulen and Sander Heijnen this means an opportunity to continue their passion and expertise in a different way and contribute to the international Koi community. We can also be proud that the knowledge in the field of Koi, our entrepreneurship and knowledge of languages gives the Netherlands an increasingly prominent role in the international market.