Folat turns

It was a graduation project in which Marc Mulckhuyse and Alex Adrichem were paid in foil balloons that created the idea for the foundation of Folat. The duo sold the balloons at the Rotterdam marathon, making twice the original value of the items, and quickly realised the considerable opportunities available in the party sector. As a result, Folat was founded on 23 June, 1993.

Initially the company was positioned as a wholesaler, and Marc and Alex drove around in a Volkswagen Golf selling to a wide variety of retailers including party shops, hospital shops, florists and tobacconists.

Eventually the portfolio expanded to include party products and after some time, the pair begun to make some bold moves, and with some bravery, luck and good timing, they garnered interest from some larger retailers. From there the company grew and expanded outside potential for growth: “New parties are crossing over from all over the world. We only now start to celebrate bigger and on more occasions. A party garland and a bunch of balloons are hardly enough any more. People want a party theme, reflected in every detail and a balloon arch to match. This is an underestimated market full of potential and we are only at the beginning.”

As well as celebrating bigger, Marc sees that consumers are identifying new reasons to celebrate all the time. He continues: “I thoroughly enjoy a good party. I relish the opportunity to join in the merriment and celebrate the milestones that life presents. Furthermore, it’s delightful to witness the emergence of new reasons to celebrate.

“Take, for instance, the growing trend of ‘schulanfang’ in Germany, a celebration of children starting school. Or the ever-popular gender reveal parties. In Belgium, the once modest communion ceremony has transformed into a grand affair, with more money being spent on it than on wedding festivities. These evolving trends provide our industry with endless opportunities, and it is crucial that we continue to recognise and embrace them.”

The future looks bright, but what have been the keys to success for Folat over the past 30 years? Marc believes it’s a combination of factors, including having the right person in the right place at the right time, maintaining a positive outlook and also embracing innovation.

Since its foundation, Folat has continuously evolved and adapted to meet the dynamic needs of its customers. Marc believes that the team is also key and that having the right individuals in key positions, who are fostering a positive work environment, is key.

Over its 30 years, the company has experienced strong growth and the founders see its ability to embrace change, while maintaining a strong focus on delivering quality products and services, as what has set it apart as an industry leader. The current management team is strong and comprises a diverse range of people, each with substantial experience from renowned companies.

Marc expands: “The addition of these talented individuals who choose to work with us is a testament to our growth as a company. Equally inspiring is the presence of our operational team, which consistently delivers outstanding results. We are continuously expanding and progressing, and that is of utmost importance to me.”

At the core of Folat’s philosophy is the belief that everything should be approached with a smile, from answering every phone call, to carefully packaging orders. Folat’s team approaches every task with enthusiasm and joy and the spirit is infectious, as was evidenced by the company’s presence at Spielwarenmesse in Nuremberg, where their excitement translated into forging meaningful connections with customers and securing new business opportunities.

Daan Nieuwland, cco at Folat, explains: “Folat is a team effort. Our clever, committed, enthusiastic and loyal people, who not only create party products, but also a prosperous work ethos, are why we are thriving. Apart from the fact that Folat has always been persistent.

“Scaling up on time, showing originality at the right moments and having the guts to take financial risks. It is an achievement to turn 30 this year, however, we are not done yet. Our ambition is to be Europe’s number one. That means we will continue to push ourselves to remain innovative, stay eager, be bold and keep delivering party products that make people smile.”

Celebrating success and embracing festivities are vital parts of our social lives, bringing joy, creating memories and strengthening connections. As Folat grows as a company, the team says it must never underestimate the power of celebration.

Add some extra sparkle to your celebration, check out our range of metallics!

Bring the party to life with Amscan’s collection of some of the world’s most loved and in demand licenses.

Our ranges of party products, balloons and costumes create great excitement for all ages!

Tis almost the season for the last flings before the ring to take place. While budgets are tight for many, the lack of restrictions this summer will hopefully see consumers taking advantage of their freedom and planning some parties. Progressive Party finds out what the latest trends are, and what key suppliers are expecting for the season.