New Businesses And Expansions Boost Maastricht's Local Economy
With the booming local economy, Maastricht has recently welcomed new businesses and expansions, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere and community growth.
This past Friday marked the grand opening of the third branch of VDB Notarissen, a multidisciplinary and innovative notary office already established with significant branches in Waalre and Rosmalen. The ceremony took place at their new location on Avenue Céramique, attended by clients and business associates who celebrated this momentous occasion together.
VDB Notarissen boasts 55 employees, specializing predominantly in corporate law, estate planning, and real estate. The firm caters primarily to family businesses and medium to large enterprises. "Maastricht is the ideal location to facilitate cross-border cases. We also see much potential in the vibrant Limburg legal scene," shared Kim van Winden-Vervuurt, notary and partner at VDB. Having been with the firm for ten years, she returned to her roots to lead the Maastricht team comprising local professionals.
Located at Newtone, along Renier Nafzgerstraat, the new office aims to build on the company's national and international presence, ensuring seamless cooperation with its existing offices across Waalre and Rosmalen. “We have specialists for every concern at our disposal,” Van Winden-Vervuurt reiterated.
Meanwhile, another noteworthy expansion through TEFAF Maastricht is set to take place, transforming the contemporary high jewelry sector within this prestigious art and antique fair. This year's event, scheduled from March 15-20 at the MECC Maastricht convention center, anticipates more change and growth than seen since 2016. The fair will feature around 260 galleries and artists from roughly 20 countries, showcasing works spanning nearly all periods of civilization, with renowned Old Masters paintings taking center stage.
The changes include the departure of Indian high jeweler Bhagat and Swiss jeweler Boghossian, both of whom had maintained strict limitations on public engagement and photography of their exquisite pieces. Their absence creates opportunities for new participants, including Margot McKinney, Santi Jewels, Buccellati, and Feng J. All of these newcomers are anticipated to provide fresh energy, diversity, and exuberance to the established fair.
Margot McKinney, who has made her mark as a fourth-generation jeweler, plans to debut extraordinary new items at the fair. Heralded for her ability to source spectacular natural gems from around the world, she combines aesthetics with exceptional craftsmanship. “My collection introduces eight butterfly brooches, each symbolizing one of the 'eight festivals,'” explained Anna Hu, another highlight expected at this year’s fair.
Feng J, claiming the distinction of being TEFAF’s very first jewelry exhibitor from mainland China and the youngest participant, captures attention with her innovative style and inspiration drawn from French impressionist paintings. Her unique technique known as “floating gems” reveals her artistry and ability to blend Western and Eastern influences.
Established brands will also showcase their works. Buccellati returns to TEFAF with pieces steeped in Italian style and craftsmanship. Notable creations include jewelry linked to the legacy of Gianmaria Buccellati, the key figure establishing the brand’s global status. Alongside are signature works from Hemmerle, Otto Jakob, and Van Cleef & Arpels, all of whom have exhibited at TEFAF for several years.
Collectively, the waves of these new developments signal both the growth of Maastricht's local economy through business expansions and the diversification of the arts within the city. The entrance of dynamic players like VDB Notarissen and the array of fine jewelry showcased at TEFAF exemplify how Maastricht is not just maintaining its artistic heritage but also fostering its evolution as a global hub for business and culture.
Through these efforts, residents and visitors alike continue to benefit from the rich cultural and economic texture Maastricht offers.