Laurent Noel, looking back on his first year at Sud-Fresh
Behind every on-time order, every innovative solution, or every challenge met, there are committed, passionate, and often discreet people. That's why we've decided to regularly introduce you to the people who keep Sud-Fresh running on a daily basis—key employees who, each in their own way, embody our values and vision.
To kick off this series, we're heading to Aubange, where Sud-Fresh is deploying its logistics expertise. And on hand on site is a familiar face: Laurent Noel, Logistics Manager.
But who is Laurent really?
Father of two children aged 9 and 14, Laurent is a sports enthusiast, a travel enthusiast, and a tireless explorer of historical and archaeological sites. When he's not exploring new cultures or lifting weights in the gym, he devotes his time to what matters most to him: his family, his friends, and his work, surrounded by those he loves. And when he's managing daily food logistics, he reflects with pleasure on those simple and warm moments, like a barbecue with friends, which give meaning to his job.
Logistics Manager, Laurent joined Sud-Fresh Aubange in March 2024 to manage a brand new project from A to Z for Scapest, the number 1 retailer in France. This project, entirely dedicated to Value Added Logistics such as picking, receiving, and shipping orders, was an opportunity for him to showcase his full range of logistics skills.
Laurent's main motivation is his passion for his work. In a rapidly expanding logistics sector, where it can sometimes be difficult to stand out, he readily seized the opportunity to join a forward-looking company with innovative projects.
When I met Laurent, I asked him if his daily commute wasn't a burden for him. Indeed, living not far from Charleroi, Laurent travels nearly two hours a day to get to and from work—a commitment that speaks volumes about his motivation. "Logistics can become the only job you want to do once you've had a taste of it. I had the opportunity to work closer to home after being approached by other players in the market; however, the assurance of being able to launch a great project like the one presented to Sud-Fresh with Scapest tipped the scales, " he replied.
“One of the best memories I have is the first meeting with my team;
I immediately understood that we would get along well and do good work together."
According to him, this project was very rewarding and fulfilled his professional aspirations. However, that's not what he's most proud of. For Laurent, the success of this project is also in the hands of his staff, whom he pushes to improve every day. Communication, understanding, and team professionalism are important aspects in his eyes. "I am convinced that the key to a job well done is, above all, listening and trust. I communicate transparently, I involve each person on my team at the heart of this project, ensuring they receive all the necessary support they need. It is important to me that everyone feels valued, motivated, and fully equipped to accomplish their missions in the best possible way."
At Sud-Fresh, transportation is at the heart of our business, but it's the people who make it so rich. Beyond the miles traveled and the goods delivered, it's the teams who keep the company going every day. Each employee is treated with respect, listened to, and encouraged to grow. The friendly and supportive atmosphere creates a great work environment—a true driver of performance and cohesion.
Finally, Laurent shares with us his most memorable moment of the past year: the very first positive feedback from Scapest. It was a memorable moment, not only for him, but also for the thirteen people who work on the project every day within his team.
Laurent Noel is therefore carrying out this project with a highly positive personality at Sud-Fresh, ensuring professionalism and a good working environment at the Aubange office. His future at Sud-Fresh? He sees it as one of new challenges to be met on a daily basis, and one that will be long-term.