Our history

In our 75 years we have delivered over 25,000 projects in over 150 countries, frequently delivering plants and equipment to repeat customers. Let's take you back to where it all started and guide you through our history of engineering plants and equipment for the food, feed and biofuel industries. A history of constant growth and expansion.

History
1946
Desmet is founded
1946
1946
Preparation and Extraction

When Jean-Albert De Smet founded Extraction De Smet in Edegem, near Antwerp, Belgium, the company focused on offering innovative technologies for the preparation and extraction of oils and fats from oilseeds. This marked the beginning of what would become a significant player in the global oils and fats processing industry.

1963
1963
Refining

The introduction of oil refining technologies strengthened the company’s position as a comprehensive provider of advanced solutions in the oils and fats processing industry. By expanding beyond extraction and preparation, the company was able to offer a complete range of services, catering to the growing demands of the global market.

1966
Expansion in Spain
1969
Expansion in Mexico
1969
Expansion in Argentina
1970
Expansion in Brazil
1975
Stolz joins Desmet
1975
1975
Grain Handling and Feed Milling

Through a collaboration with Stolz, Desmet expanded its expertise by introducing grain handling and feed milling technologies. This partnership allowed Desmet to broaden its range of solutions beyond oils and fats processing, entering the food and feed processing industry.

1978
Expansion in Malaysia
1979
Expansion in USA
1980
Expansion in Singapore
1983
1983
Fat Modification

Desmet launched its fat modification activities. This expansion allowed the company to offer more advanced processing solutions, such as interesterification and hydrogenation, further solidifying its position as a leader in the oils and fats processing industry.

1984
Expansion in India
1988
RoseDowns joins Desmet (oilseed presses)
1989
Acquisition of Votator deodorizer technology
1990
1990
Oleochemicals

By entering the oleochemicals market, Desmet strategically expanded its operations and diversified its portfolio. This move reinforced the company’s position as a leading provider of comprehensive solutions for both the food and non-food sectors.

1995
Expansion in Russia
1999
Acquisition of French solvent extraction technology
2000
Global Engineering Center
2002
2002
Biodiesel

Driven by the rise of renewable energy, Desmet launched its biodiesel solutions. This strategic move expanded its portfolio into the renewable energy sector, reinforcing Desmet’s leadership in advanced, sustainable processing technologies.

2002
Expansion in China
2007
2007
HVO Pre-treatment

Responding to the increasing demand for renewable fuels, Desmet introduced its HVO pre-treatment technologies, further diversifying its offerings and reinforcing its position as a pioneer in sustainable energy solutions.

2011
Expansion in Indonesia
2019
Expansion in Vietnam
2020
Acquisition of Serptec (rendering presses)