Besix N.V.
Construction company founded in 1907.
Compagnie d'Entreprises (CFE)
Founded in 1880 as the Compagnie Générale de Chemins de Fer Secondaires, to build and manage railway and tram line concessions across Belgium. In 1921, the company diversified into civil engineering and building construction under the name of Compagnie Belge de Chemins de Fer et d'Entreprises. In 1930, the Société Générale de Dragage subdidary was formed to undertake dredging works both in Belgium and abroad. In 1938, the Compagnie d'Entreprises was officially formed to act as a parent company of the three subsidiaries.
Deceuninck N.V.
Founded in 1937 in Hooglede-Gits to manufacture window frames and doors and other wooden architectural elements.
Jan de Nul
Founded in 1938, in Hofstade near Aalst, as a construction company specialising in civil works and maritime construction. In 1947, the company entered into the dredging business and acquired a small fleet of three second-hand dredgers.