The 20 years Desu Systems story
From a kitchen table in the Netherlands to a global leader in fire protection. This is our story.
In 2005, after nearly 20 years in the international fire protection industry, our founder, Ronald, identified a critical void: customer service had become an afterthought in many large corporations. So, along with his wife, Joke, he took a bold step – launching Desu Systems around a kitchen table, guided by a single principle:
Put the customer first. Always.
That meant exceptional service, products in stock, and lightning-fast response.
From those humble beginnings, a garage shelf with just a few flame detectors, we grew steadily, one relationship at a time. In 2012, we hired our first employee. By 2015, we opened our own 900 m² headquarters. Today, our team proudly serves over 1,000 customers across 65+ countries.
20 years Desu Systems timeline
1989
Ronald Verkroost, our founder, begins career in international fire protection industry.
2008–2015
- International expansion into Middle East, India, and Africa.
- Buckeye partnership begins (2008).
- Hansentek partnership (2006).
2013–2015
- Team expands to 4 FTE.
- Move into 900 m² HQ.
- Stock exceeds 300 flame detectors and 300 kitchen fire suppression systems.
2009–2018
Technology upgrades: 40/40 Flame Detector series (2009), Quasar 700 OPGD (2009), Quasar 900 OPGD (2018)
2019
Appointed official Spectrex Master Distributor and Channel Partner for Europe by SPECTREX
2020
Team expands to 5 FTE
2021
- New generation 40/40C and 40/40D detectors launched.
- Sensia partnership begins (OGI and methane imaging).
- First green offshore project won with methane cameras.
2023
- Team expands to 8 FTE.
- HQ renovation.
- Revenue milestone €9M.
2025
- 4 Divisions officially established:
Flame & Gas Detection | OGI & Methane Emission Monitoring | Kitchen Fire & Hygiene Solutions | Armored Vehicle Fire Suppression - K-Star Automatic Degreasing launch
- Team expands to 13 FTE.
Proof points
Over 125,000 flame detectors supplied.
More than 25,000 kitchen fire suppression systems deployed since 2008.
1,000+ active customers in 65+ countries.
Trusted by top global energy, aviation, and manufacturing companies, including oil & gas majors.
Customer satisfaction score: 4.84/5 for “Expertise & Speed.”
Recognized as world’s largest flame detection distributor and Spectrex’s biggest customer.
What loyal clients say:
"Our cooperation with Desu and especially Ronald and Joke goes back a long time. Knowledge and kindness were and still are some of the main reasons we collaborate with Desu Systems. It is always a pleasure to work with Desu, especially as they always keep their promises. I see our collaboration with Desu systems more like as a friendship, so it is very easy to recommend Desu Systems."
"As the main distributor for Buckeye kitchen fire suppression systems in Ireland, we have very good personal relationships with all our commercial and technical colleagues in Desu and we trust them. Buckeye products supplied by Desu are consistently good quality and easy to install- we never have any performance quality issues. We are very confident in recommending Desu products to our customers.
Desu’s strongest attribute is their excellent customer service and fair pricing. The company want us to be successful and always support us. Along with their reasonable lead-time for deliver of stock from Europe, which is only 1-2 weeks so as a relatively small distributor, we don’t need to hold high levels of stock. therefore, we have no hesitation recommending Desu to colleagues in our industry and are always proud to do so."
Desu’s strongest attribute is their excellent customer service and fair pricing. The company want us to be successful and always support us. Along with their reasonable lead-time for deliver of stock from Europe, which is only 1-2 weeks so as a relatively small distributor, we don’t need to hold high levels of stock. therefore, we have no hesitation recommending Desu to colleagues in our industry and are always proud to do so."
"We chose to collaborate with Desu Systems because of their excellent service, deep technical expertise, and their ability to recommend fit-for-purpose solutions that align perfectly with our operational environment. What truly sets Desu Systems apart for us is the open and transparent communication we’ve experienced over the years. Their active involvement and willingness to think along with us on how to improve asset detection have proven to be of great value.
I would definitely recommend Desu Systems to industry colleagues. They know what they’re talking about, understand the do’s and don’ts, and clearly add value to the security of installations such as a storage and transshipment site for mineral oils."
I would definitely recommend Desu Systems to industry colleagues. They know what they’re talking about, understand the do’s and don’ts, and clearly add value to the security of installations such as a storage and transshipment site for mineral oils."
"We’ve worked with Desu Systems for over a decade - and their expertise continues to impress.
Their technical knowledge and professional support make them a true partner, not just a supplier. Whenever challenges arise, Desu’s team is there with practical solutions and a genuine willingness to help. Their strong stock availability and fast delivery keep our projects running smoothly.
Simply put, Desu are the best."
Their technical knowledge and professional support make them a true partner, not just a supplier. Whenever challenges arise, Desu’s team is there with practical solutions and a genuine willingness to help. Their strong stock availability and fast delivery keep our projects running smoothly.
Simply put, Desu are the best."
From local roots to global reach
Our expansion has been both strategic and organic. What began in the Benelux has evolved to include the entire EMEA region, the Caspian, and India. Along the way, we’ve forged strong partnerships with global leaders like Spectrex, Emerson, Buckeye, Sensia, and Hansentek.
We’ve delivered mission-critical safety solutions in a variety of industries, including but not limited to:
- Waste Handling
- Offshore Substations
- Food Processing
- Energy Storage
- Tank Storage Farms
- Hydrogen Fueling
- Gas Turbines
- Transformer Stations
- Aircraft Hangars
- Compressor Stations
- Refineries
- Automotive Industry
- Hospitality
Four divisions. One mission.
Today, Desu Systems operates through four specialized divisions:
Flame & Gas Detection
OGI & Methane Emission Monitoring
Kitchen Fire & Hygiene Solutions
Armored Vehicle Fire Suppression
The real difference: People
Behind every detector, system, and shipment is a human connection. Our clients come back again and again, not just because we’re fast or stocked – but because we care. Because we listen. Because we solve. Because we are there for them. With an average customer rating of 4.84/5 for “Expertise & Speed”, we continue to deliver safety solutions that go beyond compliance – creating cleaner, safer, and better-protected environments around the world.
What Trusted brand partners say:
"From the beginning, I chose Desu as our distribution partner because Ron's deep industry knowledge and proven track record. Over the years, those strengths have only become more evident. Desu team is consistently reliable, proactive. It's been a trusted relationship.
Been Impressed Desu team's dedication, responsiveness, and deep understanding of the market. Beyond the operational excellence, it's the professionalism, integrity that makes Desu an exemptional partner!! Thank you!"
Been Impressed Desu team's dedication, responsiveness, and deep understanding of the market. Beyond the operational excellence, it's the professionalism, integrity that makes Desu an exemptional partner!! Thank you!"
"As a long-standing partner of Desu Systems, we have consistently been impressed with their commitment to excellence, customer focus and dedication.
When initially selecting Desu Systems as our distribution partner, we were drawn to their unmatched expertise in Flame and Gas solutions and their reputation for reliability in the market. Over the years, their team has continually demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking and an unwavering dedication to understanding our unique business needs. Their proactive approach and ability to adapt swiftly to changing market demands have proven invaluable to us.
Without hesitation, I would highly recommend Desu Systems to others in our network looking for a dependable and forward-thinking partner in Flame and Gas solutons. Their professionalism and dedication to partner success make them a standout choice in the industry."
When initially selecting Desu Systems as our distribution partner, we were drawn to their unmatched expertise in Flame and Gas solutions and their reputation for reliability in the market. Over the years, their team has continually demonstrated exceptional strategic thinking and an unwavering dedication to understanding our unique business needs. Their proactive approach and ability to adapt swiftly to changing market demands have proven invaluable to us.
Without hesitation, I would highly recommend Desu Systems to others in our network looking for a dependable and forward-thinking partner in Flame and Gas solutons. Their professionalism and dedication to partner success make them a standout choice in the industry."
"Hansentek is a Canadian manufacturer of specialized industrial fire protection systems. We have worked with Desu Systems since 2010 and have had the pleasure of meeting in person with Ronald Verkroost on multiple occasions.
Desu Systems have been a great partner as they have provided helpful feedback over the years which we have incorporated into our products. I would definitely recommend Desu Systems to any company looking for a fabulous partner to assist in expanding/broadening their customer base.
Congratulations on 20 years in business!"
Desu Systems have been a great partner as they have provided helpful feedback over the years which we have incorporated into our products. I would definitely recommend Desu Systems to any company looking for a fabulous partner to assist in expanding/broadening their customer base.
Congratulations on 20 years in business!"
The companies we work with
Looking ahead: The future is already in motion
As we celebrate 20 years of growth and gratitude, we’re not slowing down. Our next chapter is already being written, driven by:
- AI-powered gas detection innovation
- Next-generation automatic kitchen hygiene systems
- Rising demand for methane and emission monitoring solutions
And as always, we move forward with the same foundation that brought us here:
Stock, Expertise, Speed and an unwavering focus on people.
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