As the scale and complexity of hydraulic and infrastructure projects grew in the late 19th century, Nicolaas van Haaren and Hendrik Willem Ackermans thrived by forging partnerships, not only with fellow contractors and engineers, but also with specialized shipyards. These partnerships were essential in developing and maintaining a dredging fleet capable of taking on increasingly large and complex projects.

A clear example of such a successful collaboration is the supply of Meuse gravel for the construction of several Belgian forts. This large-scale project could only be completed within the tight timeframe thanks to close cooperation with the right partners, including Fougerolle.

Throughout history, collaboration with partners has remained a common thread. The founders laid the foundations, and in the years that followed this approach was consistently carried forward. Whether for major dredging works, the expansion of the Port of Antwerp, or the creation of new entities to enable growth and innovation, strategic partnerships repeatedly played a key role. These were not merely business arrangements, but durable relationships based on a shared vision, mutual respect and a commitment to delivering quality.