Family Sempels

Location

Zoutleeuw

Products

About Family Sempels

Sempels Fruit is a family-run business located in Budingen, a district of Zoutleeuw. Rudi Sempels has been active in the fruit-growing sector for around 45 years. An Pieraerts joined the business in 1990, and since January 1, 2025, their son Niels has also become part of the company. Together, they continue the business under the name Sempels Fruit.

The passion for fruit growing began with Niels’ father and has been passed down through three generations. An also grew into the profession and became strongly involved in the sector as chairwoman of the Hageland Fruit Growers’ Women Association.

Work in the orchard

The company mainly focuses on pears. Conference is the primary variety, complemented by Early Desire and Lucas pears. In addition, there is one plot of Reinders Golden apples.

Daily monitoring and adjustments are essential in the orchard. By responding quickly when needed, the fruit receives the proper care to grow successfully.

The most rewarding time of the year remains the harvest season. Harvesting begins in mid-August, and about a month later the results of a full year’s work become clear. Afterwards, things become quieter, with pruning during the winter and spraying in the spring. However, work in the orchard never truly stops.

Challenges in the fruit-growing sector

Consumers are still not sufficiently aware of the different varieties of apples and pears grown locally. In addition, strict regulations require increasing amounts of time and follow-up. Regulations concerning spraying and certification mean that growers constantly need to adapt and carefully document their work.

A family business that continues to grow

Over the years, the Sempels family has gradually expanded the business into what it is today. Through new developments and plantings, they have continued investing in their future.

An also explains that people often misunderstand local agriculture. Spraying is not done carelessly, but under strict regulations and careful supervision. Growers work every day in accordance with the law, with care for their fruit and a strong focus on quality.