Hotel Central ushers in new era 

Transfer from Karin Rademaker to Tom Rademaker 

Under the watchful eye of over 200 guests, Karin and Tom Rademaker on 27 October officially presented the second issue of the magazine “Central” to Colonel Nick Lock OBE and Wim van de Donk (chairman of the 4/5 May Committee). The date of 27 October was deliberately chosen as a handover date because on that day in 1944 ’s-Hertogenbosch was liberated by the 53rd Welsh Division. This magazine is dedicated to the freedom we can experience every day thanks to the Welsh. Without freedom once fought for (and to be defended), there is no such thing as hospitality. Karin Rademaker also surprised the colonel with a cheque for GBP 1944 for The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum. 

In addition, Rademaker (4th generation) handed over the key of operations with all associated responsibilities of Hotel Central to her nephew Tom Rademaker (5th generation). This symbolic transfer puts a new generation at the helm of the iconic family business. Hotel Central has been a household name in ’s-Hertogenbosch and far beyond for 120 years. Ms Ina Adema (Commissioner of the King in Brabant) explained how Central, as a family business, symbolises stability and continuity and contributes to economic strength. 

Director of real estate and Ambassador Central 

Karin Rademaker remains in her role as Hotel Central ambassador and director of real estate at an appropriate distance, will still be involved in the hotel and, of course, in the further development of the future vision for Bossche Binnenstad. “It feels special to pass on the baton on this very day when we pause to remember our liberation,” says Rademaker. “Hotel Central is built on respect for the past, supported by the present and focused on the future. I am confident that Tom will continue that line with pride and new energy.” Being able to do business in freedom is seen within the Rademaker family as something invaluable. 

Future after transfer 

Together with his team, Tom Rademaker forms the fifth generation at the helm of Hotel Central. In the coming years, he will focus on further renewal and sustainable growth, where tradition and future continue to go hand in hand. The hotel, with its close historical ties to Wales and the liberation of the city, is known for hospitality, quality and commitment to ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Karin Rademaker concludes, “I wish Tom, his wife and their children every success. It feels good to know that Hotel Central will remain in such inspired hands.”