History
The hazel tree as a source of inspiration
The family name ‘Colruyt’ is derived from ‘corylus’, the Latin word for ‘hazel’. Corylus is also etymologically related to the Greek ‘korys’, which means ‘bearer of fruit’.
The hazel tree is robust, has a long lifespan and lets an entire ecosystem flourish around it. It exemplifies our vision of investing.
Like branches on a tree we
may grow in different directions.
Yet our roots remain as one.
From the Colruyt tradition
Korys is the investment company of the Colruyt family. In four generations, this family has built a successful international retail group, the eponymous Colruyt Group. In 2012, Korys was established as a ‘family office’. At Korys, we manage the estate of the Colruyt family, championing value-driven business practices by investing in people and companies. We believe an attractive return is perfectly compatible with a positive contribution to people, the environment and society.
Korys grows and moves to a new location.
Team expanded to 30 employees.
Investments in accordance with our 3 pillars: Liquid Investments, Direct Investments en Fund Investments
Establishment of Family Office Korys
Establishment of our own Liquid Fund in Luxembourg
Fund Investments
Liquid Investments
Direct Investments
Establishment of the family investment company
Launch of the Colruyt Group logo. With ‘Colruyt Group’ as the umbrella name, all chains maintain a link with their past.
After the decease of Jo, his son Jef Colruyt follows in his footsteps. He starts diversifying into retail brands.
First Private Equity Fund by Colruyt
Initial public offering of Colruyt (IPO)
Opening of the first BONI store
Son of baker Franz Colruyt founds a wholesaler and focuses on groceries in Brussels and surroundings. He sells goods such as coffee, salt and sugar.
2018
Korys grows and moves to a new location. Team expanded to 30 employees.
Investments in accordance with our 3 pillars: Liquid Investments, Direct Investments en Fund Investments
2012
Establishment of Family Office Korys
2009
Establishment of Family Office Korys
2005
Fund Investments
2005
Liquid Investments
2001
Direct Investments
Establishment of the family investment company
2013
Launch of the Colruyt Group logo. With ‘Colruyt Group’ as the umbrella name, all chains maintain a link with their past.
1994
After the decease of Jo, his son Jef Colruyt follows in his footsteps. He starts diversifying into retail brands.
1991
First Private Equity Fund by Colruyt
1977
Initial public offering Colruyt (IPO)
1958
First Boni opens the doors
1928
Son of baker Franz Colruyt founds a wholesaler and focuses on groceries in Brussels and surroundings. He sells goods such as coffee, salt and sugar.
