For over two decades, the Huysmans family has been a driving force in global logistics, connecting freight forwarders worldwide into a community defined by trust and collaboration. While Apollo Global Experts stands today as a beacon of industry expertise, its foundation rests on a deep family legacy that began long before the current brand emerged.
The roots of this journey trace back to 1998 with the founding of Atlas International Network. Luc Huysmans, along with three like-minded co-founders, launched the initiative to bring people together. Over the years, the network evolved, eventually becoming fully owned by the Huysmans family. Ten years ago, Lyanne Huysmans joined the fold, marking a new chapter in leadership continuity.
The Seeds of an Idea
When Luc Huysmans founded Atlas International Network in the late 90s, the logistics landscape looked nothing like it does today. The need for a platform that fostered genuine connections between freight forwarders was evident, yet the market lacked a solution.
“My first step into logistics was as a manifest clerk at a shipping company,” Luc recalls. “We noticed the growing demand for a reliable system where agents could learn about each other and build partnerships. Alongside friends in logistics from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UAE, we saw the gap in the market.”
With this ambition, Atlas International Network was born. What started as a modest group of forwarders grew steadily over two decades. In recent years, this legacy has transformed into Apollo Global Experts, a flourishing community that honors its past while looking firmly toward the future.
A Family Affair
The organization grew not just as a network but as a family-led enterprise. Lyanne Huysmans, who began her career in hospital quality and accreditation, reflects on her transition into the family business.
“My first role in logistics began with Atlas International Network,” Lyanne explains. “When someone left the team, my father saw it as the perfect opportunity to bring me on board. Balancing family and work had its hurdles, but the shared goal of building something greater fueled our ambition.”
Lyanne now carries the torch as managing director of Apollo Global Experts, embodying the values ingrained by her father. For her, the business is about more than strategy; it’s about people.
“As a family, we’ve always focused on qualities like solidarity, persistence, and communication,” she shares. “Those are the principles I strive to pass on to our team and members. At Apollo Global Experts, everyone is treated like family.”
Luc echoes those sentiments. “You’re not just building a business; you’re building a community. Passion for your work, combined with offering opportunities and assisting others, is how we create value. Those are messages I’ve always tried to impress upon Lyanne.”
Navigating Challenges Together
Running a family business comes with unique complexities. For the Huysmans duo, creating boundaries between family life and work remains an ongoing effort.
“To be honest, there’s no clear line,” Lyanne admits. “Ideas come to me at night, in the early mornings… it’s a 24/7 job because of the passion that drives us.”
Luc adds, “You need to be deliberate about creating space to pause and recalibrate. Even amidst passion, it’s important to plan moments of reflection to ensure longevity.”
Despite the challenges, the family dynamic offers distinct advantages. “Having built the foundation of Atlas International Network together means we understand each other’s goals as we lead Apollo Global Experts today,” says Lyanne. “Even our debates come from a place of trust and shared ambition.”
Carrying Forward the Family Spirit
What makes Apollo Global Experts unique is its commitment to maintaining the family-oriented ethos established during the Atlas International Network era. Members are not treated as mere colleagues but as integral parts of the broader family.
“Family businesses are built on values, not just profit,” Lyanne explains. “For us, those values include quality, appreciation, and the belief that everyone’s contribution matters.”
Luc emphasizes that the strength of the organization lies in balancing tradition with adaptability. “Even as technology and regulations evolve, staying true to our core values ensures continuity. It’s about innovation, yes, but also about holding onto what makes us special.”
Looking ahead, Lyanne is optimistic. “The guiding principles my father established—trust, perseverance, and a sense of community—will continue to serve Apollo Global Experts well. It’s my privilege to carry that forward as the second generation.”