Historic moment for the hardware sector: Rik Lecot passes operational torch after 25 years of pioneering work

An era closes at Lecot, the market leader in construction hardware, tools and fasteners. After a career spanning a quarter century, Rik Lecot stepped down from his operational duties on Feb. 4, 2026. Under his reign, the company transformed from a local player to an international wholesaler, essential for professionals in window, door and façade technology.

Rik Lecot's step down marks an important turning point in the company's history. For many years he acted as the crucial link between the historical family character of the company and the necessary increase in scale after the takeover by Lieven Santens. His vision was decisive for the position Lecot occupies today in the Belgian and Dutch construction column.

From batter producer to distribution giant

Rik Lecot's expertise in the world of hardware was present before he started at the family business. In 2000, he brought valuable experience from audit firm Arthur Anderson and batter manufacturer Normbau. In his role as co-CEO, side by side with Philippe De Veyt, he assumed responsibility for acquisitions and sales.

Until 2023, they jointly steered the strategy. The focus here was on a healthy balance between aggressive growth and maintaining the human touch. For customers in the frame and facade industry, this meant the professionalism of a large group, with the accessibility of a local partner.

Explosive growth of distribution network

The numbers Rik Lecot leaves behind speak for themselves. When he took office, the organization had only four branches. Today, professionals can visit no fewer than 91 branches spread throughout Belgium and the Netherlands. This expansion was crucial for the ‘just-in-time’ delivery needs of installers and contractors.

In addition to the physical expansion, the offerings were greatly broadened. Rik Lecot spearheaded strategic initiatives that strengthened ties with the industry:
* Lecot On Tour: An initiative to bring manufacturers, suppliers and processors together physically.
* STROXX: The successful introduction of the house brand, offering a quality alternative for various tools and consumables.

“After 25 intense and particularly exciting years, this is the right time to pass the torch,” said Rik Lecot. “Lecot today is a strong and healthy company, carried by people with vision and commitment.”

Continuity in the construction chain under Pieter Morisse

Operational leadership is now fully in the hands of CEO Pieter Morisse, who has been at the helm since 2023. For the partners in window and door technology, nothing will change in terms of reliability. The focus remains on professionalization, sustainable growth and supply chain optimization.

Pieter Morisse emphasizes the importance of his predecessor: “Rik helped lay the foundation on which Lecot stands today. His entrepreneurial spirit, vision and people-oriented approach remain tangible in the DNA of our organization. We are building on that foundation, with respect for the past and a clear view of the future.”

Continued involvement in the Board of Directors

Although Rik Lecot is closing the doors of his Heule office behind him, his expertise is not disappearing from the sector. He remains active as a member of the Board of Directors of Lecot. He also retains his mandates on various boards of directors of purchasing organizations to which Lecot is affiliated, thus continuing to influence the hardware and hardware purchasing market at a strategic level.

Key figures of a market leader
The organization that Rik Lecot is operationally leaving is an indispensable player for the construction professional in 2026:
* Establishment: 1888 (Diksmuide).
* Turnover 2025: More than 279 million euros.
* Assortment: 110,000 products, 40,000 of which are available directly from stock.
* Staff: Over 750 employees.
* Property: Owned by the Anne and Françoise Santens families.