At a presentation ceremony held in front of Buhrs employees, Geke Faber, the mayor of Zaanstad (where Buhrs is headquartered), bestowed the accolade on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix to chief executive Joost van der Klooster.

Van der Klooster said: "This predicate is an ode to the employees of Buhrs and its business relations. Last year Buhrs celebrated its 100th anniversary; in recognition of this significant event a book detailing the history of Buhrs was published.

"After reading this book it is easy to come to the conclusion that Buhrs has grown through the hard work of many dedicated people.

"From a smithy in Zaandam to a worldwide manufacturer of mailing and fulfilment solutions, the honour of the predicate Royal is a credit to many people who have been devoted to the company."