SHV: an impressive history

SHV was founded as a coal trading company in 1896. Since then, the world has changed beyond recognition – and so has SHV. Go on a journey that takes in alliances and politics, world recession and global expansion, invasion and innovation… a journey 125 years in the making.

SHV is founded

Eight coal trading firms join forces to establish Steenkolenhandelsvereeniging – or SHV for short.

Read the story

Monopoly on German coal

With a monopoly over the trade in imported German coal, SHV consolidates its economic position.

Read the story

Innovation in coal transport

Within the modernizing Rotterdam harbour, SHV introduces the innovative elevator transporter.

Read the story

Unitas: investing in the future

With the founding of Unitas, SHV invests in the modernisation of the Netherlands.

Read the story

Secret coal

Against the explicit conditions of its German coal supplier, SHV secretly trades in English coal.

Read the story

Into the mines

SHV acquires its own mine and, in so doing, gains direct access to coal.

Read the story

Maritime empire

Wherever possible, SHV takes the opportunity to control every link in the coal supply chain.

Read the story

Dealing with a crisis

In the face of growing unemployment and international political tensions, SHV finds a way to adjust to the economic crisis.

Read the story

Under German occupation

The German army invades, occupying the Netherlands and dictating harsh terms to Dutch companies.

Read the story

Rebuilding for the future

After the war, SHV enters the age of modernity – both inside and outside the brand new office building.

Read the story