The brewery
A completely independent family brewery since 1870
Lindeboom Bierbrouwerij
The family tradition began in 1870 when Willem Geenen established a brewery next to an old linden tree. At the time, there were hundreds of small breweries in the Netherlands selling their beer locally or regionally. Driven by quality, Willem focused on local ingredients and perfecting the brewing process. This laid the foundation for our present-day family brewery.
Timeline
1870
After training as a brewmaster in Worms, Germany, Willem Geenen establishes a brewery next to his house, near the eighty-year-old linden tree. In October of that year the first beer called Geenen’s Bier is launched.
1879
After completing their brewing training, daughter Christine and son Bernard join the family business.
1896
Sales grow and Willem invests heavily in marketing campaigns as well as in the first automatic bottle-filling machine in Limburg.
1902
His beer wins a gold medal at the International Exhibition. A true testament to his masterpiece.
1903
After Willem’s death, his children Bernard and Christine (second generation) take over the brewery. They introduce Limburgs Blond, Pilsner and Limburgs Bruin.
1905
The beer is awarded a silver medal at the World’s Fair in Liège.
1912
A completely new brewhouse is built, equipped with a modern refrigeration system and a steam engine with a tall chimney for energy supply.
1914
The First World War breaks out in Europe. Many breweries are forced to shut down but thanks to the Geenen family’s entrepreneurial spirit, Lindeboom remains in business.
1940
After Bernard’s death, his son Willem (third generation) takes over management, assisted by his aunt Christine. Willem takes the first steps toward modernization by being one of the first in Limburg to switch from open to closed fermentation tanks.
1945
During the Second World War, Lindeboom also remains afloat. In the years that follow, during which many smaller breweries are taken over, Lindeboom remains independent.
1970
The brewery celebrates its 100th anniversary. Willem invests in new aluminum barrels to replace the wooden ones.
1978
The fourth generation, sons Ben (since 1971) and Willem (since 1978), take over management and further modernize the brewery.
1985
The first steps towards international export are taken, Beer is now exported to England and America.
1995
On the occasion of its 125th anniversary, Lindeboom receives the title of Purveyor to the Dutch Royal Household.
2011
After the death of Willem Geenen, the brewery is passed down to his son, Bernd Geenen (5th generation).
2013
The renovated and fully modernized brewhouse is opened by (from left to right): Mrs. Geenen, Governor Bovens, General Manager Paul Joosten and Bernd Geenen.
2017
Lindeboom opens a new specialty bar.
2022
Lindeboom receives the Slow Brewing certificate, joining a select group of European brewers who strive for the highest quality.
Curious about our full story?
Time is taste
150 years of craft.
Now, 150 years later, Lindeboom is one of the few completely independent family breweries in the Netherlands. Founder Willem Geenen’s first brew was a strong regional beer called; “Geenens Bier”. later renamed Lindeboom. In 1912, the second generation, Bernard and Christien Geenen, introduced the first pilsner.
The third generation, Willem Geenen, laid the foundations for the current brewery. In the 1970s, sons Ben and Willem took over and further modernized the brewery.
Now with the fifth generation, Lindeboom remains true to its rich family tradition. Innovating and investing in sustainable techniques. You can taste this rich family tradition, the best ingredients and the love for brewing in every glass of Lindeboom. Beer from here, cheers!
