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It all started with Aloïs Deknudt. He was a successful photographer in Deerlijk in the early 1920s. Photography was still in its infancy at the time, but Aloïs had already gained several years of experience in his parents' business. There, the focus was on painting and making wooden shoes. That knowledge came in handy when he and his brother Remi decided to make their own frames to frame the portraits that were taken by Aloïs.
Business went well, and the earned money was invested in machines for producing picture frames. From 1923 on, the production of photo frames became the core business and the frame factory was born. The photo shop was handed over to their brother Emiel a few years later and remained an established business in Deerlijk's Schoolstraat until a few years ago.
After several years of collaboration between Aloïs and Remi, their paths parted. That split convinced Aloïs that he wanted his sons (Frans, Armand and Luc) to go their own way professionally.
The technical knowledge of the frame factory gave rise to the start-up of a mirror factory in 1946, led by son Frans, and a lighting shop in 1957, led by son Armand. Youngest son Luc took over the management of the original frame factory in 1961.
The 3 companies operated separately, but collaborated where it was useful. To this day, the production plant in Slovakia is a joint investment of Deknudt Frames and Deknudt Mirrors, but the companies in Deerlijk remain independent.
Kaderfabriek Deknudt, as the company used to be called, experienced strong growth under the leadership of Luc Deknudt. He led the company from 1961 to 1997. The clientele consisted mainly of photographers, both domestic and abroad. The strong focus on high-quality products, technological innovation and the permanent pursuit of increased efficiency were the basis of its success.
Today, Deknudt Frames is managed by Bruno and Thijs Deknudt, Luc's sons. The company has sales in most Western European countries and sells to a diverse clientele in photography, decoration, furniture, DIY and gift shops. Their products can also be found in the main online channels and the company also realises custom-made projects for companies, restaurants and hotel chains. The two branches, Belgium and Slovakia, employ a total of 55 people.
The 100th anniversary was celebrated with a tribute at the town hall on February 3rd 2023. This was followed by a staff party at star restaurant Marcus in Deerlijk on Friday the 10th of February.
As icing on the cake, customers will be pampered with special promotions every month to mark the 100th anniversary.
Can you think of a better moment to frame!?