Dutch Magnetics opens next chapter in innovative magnetics sorting

‘It’s a tough market, often with tight margins, and it’s becoming ever more important to deliver a total solution for metals recyclers,’ says Ilias Amhaouch, magnetic separation specialist at technology provider Dutch Magnetics. A strategic partnership with Bronneberg has now officially been registered as a 50/50 joint venture.

‘The scrap sector has a way of connecting people with common goals,’ says Amhaouch, recalling how the collaboration with Bronneberg started in November 2024. Just two months before, he left his former employer, Bakker Magnetics, to build his own magnetic separation business together with his long-time partner Ibo Serbest. Between them, they have 20+ years’ worth of experience in the field.

‘It’s important to trust your instincts and seize new opportunities,’ he tells Recycling International at the company headquarters in Helmond, in the Netherlands. ‘Our long-standing collaboration with Bronneberg made us aware of a great synergy between our companies. Joining forces officially was the logical next step.’

More than 50 machines sold 

It proved to be a solid move. ‘We sold well over 50 machines in 2025. They’ve been installed in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxemburg, Germany, Eastern Europe, the UK and Portugal as well as Ghana and Egypt. The list is still growing. We’re exploring familiar and emerging markets. These are exciting times.’

Dutch Magnetics is not surprised that fewer orders are coming in from the US. ‘The import tariffs continue to have an impact on the global scrap market – you can’t escape that,’ Amhaouch laments. ‘We can’t complain. We’ve had many things thrown at us – China cutting trade, a hike in energy prices, volatile scrap prices, geopolitical tension – and still had a great start!’

Stronger together

It’s hard to predict what the future holds. ‘One tweet from Elon Musk or Donald Trump and the prices skyrocket or plummet,’ Amhaouch points out. ‘The same thing goes for feedstock demand, which directly impacts our business. Things can go a little crazy… That’s why we’re not focussing on a specific number for 2026.’

And he adds: ‘This year is all about extending our network. We want to do what we are already doing well even better. The recycling sector is obviously facing challenges but I’m confident we will be able to handle it. We always find a way — and by working together we are stronger than ever.’