On Monday 23 September, a successful meeting of the Staples Pension Fund Participants Association (VDPS) was held at the Postillion Hotel in Bunnik. A total of 77 participants came to the meeting. A great turnout!
The VDPS was founded with the aim of giving future and current pensioners influence over our pension fund's decision-making, including through the nomination of board members and members of the accountability body.
The aim of the meeting was to inform members about some important developments and give them an opportunity to ask questions about them.
Frans Spits, president of the VDPS, opened the afternoon with the news that the recent membership recruitment drive had attracted 69 applications. A great result, but it was also highlighted that applications from future pensioners lagged behind. The chairman explained that the association also looks after the interests of this group and called on those present to urge their former colleagues to also become members.
Then Rico Donders, the chairman of the pension fund, gave a comprehensive presentation. This started with a retrospective and an overview of the state of affairs of the fund. He then addressed the future of the pension fund. This included the new set-up of the board.
Alternative forms of implementation were also discussed. On 9 August last, the board decided to start an exploration of a possible switch to an insurer, after a number of other forms of administration were found to be less attractive. Over the past period, it has spoken to several insurers for this purpose. Mr Donders emphasised the board's careful approach and took the time to explain which requirements were most important for the fund in taking a well-considered decision. He also explained the next steps in this process.
During the meeting, many good and also critical questions were asked. This provided valuable reactions and insights. All in all, it was an informative and successful afternoon for all present.
In the coming period, we will of course keep you informed of developments regarding the future of the pension fund.
Are you a future or a current retired member of our fund? Then you can become a member of the VDPS now!