From a first EcoVadis assessment to a new mindset

 “We have found that attention to sustainability not only feels right and supports the long term — it is also recognised in the labour market and more broadly in society. Receiving an EcoVadis Gold medal in 2026 is a meaningful acknowledgement of that progress.”“ 

– Stijn van Laarhoven, Finance Director at Pala Group

Can an automotive and motorcycle dealer be a frontrunner in sustainability? Pala Group (Sustainability) is one of the largest BMW and MINI dealers in the Netherlands — and the only one to hold an EcoVadis Gold medal. Enzo Verhulst (Facilities and Sustainability Manager) and Stijn van Laarhoven (Finance Director) share the story of Pala Group’s sustainability journey: how far the company has come, how Nexio Projects supported that progress, and what others can learn from the experience. 

Thinking long-term, naturally 

Stijn explains: “Pala Group is part of an automotive family representing several brands: premium, regional car and motorcycle dealers with a total of 19 locations, including a body repair business and a leasing company. Everything within the organisation is focused on serving customers to the highest standard — from an inviting showroom to smart financing to seamless damage repair. We are a family business, so thinking about the long term and future generations is in our DNA.” 

A few years ago, Pala Group made the decision to become a sustainability leader. That decision came from genuine conviction — and from the growing number of customers asking for it. Stijn explains: “Business customers in particular are increasingly choosing electric and hybrid vehicles, both out of personal conviction and because of tax incentives that make these options attractive. Many customers also value the sustainable choices BMW makes, such as using recycled and recyclable materials in new models like the iX3.” But as a dealership and service provider, what can a company do beyond the products it sells? 

EcoVadis assessment as a starting point for sustainability 

A strong starting point is implementing a sustainability management system. EcoVadis is a globally recognised standard for this — and it became Pala Group’s entry point. Enzo explains: “A sustainability management system helps us understand what sustainability means for an organisation like ours, and how to integrate it into day-to-day operations. Before I joined, my predecessor started the process in 2023 with a first EcoVadis assessment.” 

Nexio Projects was there throughout. The team helped Pala Group understand the EcoVadis methodology, review the evidence submitted across policies, actions and results, and prepare the strongest possible submission. The result: a Silver medal — the first in the sector in the Netherlands. 

Download Nexio Projects experts’ new EcoVadis guide to be fully prepared for your 2026 assessment!

Preparing for CSRD 

That foundation provided a strong basis for addressing the upcoming European CSRD legislation. Nexio Projects played a role here too. The team shared knowledge on the regulation and key concepts including carbon footprints, materiality, and Scope 1-2-3 emissions. Work also began on collecting the right data. 

Stijn explains: “Although the Omnibus update means we are no longer required to report, we intend to produce a voluntary report. It is a valuable way to show customers and other stakeholders that we remain committed to our sustainability strategy.” 

Taking action on emissions reduction 

Pala Group is already acting on sustainability. On Scope 1 and 2 emissions — covering direct emissions from own sources and indirect emissions from purchased energy — the company has moved meaningfully. Enzo explains: “We drive electric and hybrid vehicles as a matter of course. Beyond that, our showrooms and workshops are an important part of the picture — and that is where my roles as Facilities Manager and Sustainability Manager come together well.

We are currently renovating many showrooms to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that supports an integrated, omni-channel customer experience. In each renovation, sustainability improvements are built in: insulation, combined heat and power, solar panels, and charging infrastructure are all part of the consideration. We have also participated in a solar energy park, and in a car-sharing organisation — MyWheels.” 

A different mindset 

Sustainability extends beyond the environmental dimension — the social side is equally part of ESG. This is an area where the organisation is continuing to professionalise, says Stijn: “Take performance management conversations. Where the focus used to be on KPIs and results, we now explicitly consider employee wellbeing and personal development. We focus on growth — whether that is vertical or horizontal.” 

Where does Pala Group stand today on delivering its sustainability strategy? Sustainability has become a mindset and a genuine part of decision-making within the management team. Stijn adds: “We have found that attention to sustainability not only feels right and supports the long term — it is also recognised in the labour market and more broadly in society. Receiving an EcoVadis Gold medal in 2026 is a meaningful acknowledgement of that progress.” 

Support from Nexio Projects 

Nexio Projects supported Pala Group from the very beginning — how did that collaboration unfold? Enzo:

“Nexio Projects guided us every step of the way. A very supportive partner that brought insight, structure, and practical advice. Working together was smooth: alongside the workshops we ran, we could always send a quick email with questions, and we had a fortnightly call with consultant Sophia.” 

Read more case studies to see our collaboration across sectors.

What can others take from this experience? Enzo: “Whatever your reason for wanting to act on sustainability, ask for help. An experienced partner like Nexio Projects brings structure, helps you take the next step each time, and transfers knowledge along the way. Do not try to climb the mountain in one go — take it step by step, and it stays manageable and even enjoyable.” 

Nexio Projects’ Sophia Grotz:

“It is wonderful to hear how Enzo and Stijn have experienced the collaboration. Knowing that sustainability has become part of their mindset is genuinely motivating. It is a privilege to support them a little further each time — and I look forward to what comes next.” 

Contact Nexio Projects if you are looking for support in any part of your sustainability jounrey.

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