Case study: Zorgpunt Waasland, pioneer in bike leasing within public organizations

How important is sustainable business for Zorgpunt Waasland?

As a major player in the healthcare sector, sustainability is an aspect we want to anchor in our policies and daily operations. This includes the use of sustainable materials in our facilities, as well as the energy efficiency of buildings, vehicles, and more.

Significant efforts are being made to implement energy-saving measures across our infrastructure (solar panels, heat pumps, etc.). In addition, the transition of our vehicle fleet to a greener fleet (electrification) is well underway. In procurement processes, sustainability is consistently included as an award criterion in tender specifications.

By offering bike leasing , Zorgpunt Waasland encourages its employees to use bicycles for commuting and other travel. This not only contributes to fewer cars on the road — and thus a reduction in CO₂ emissions - but also to the overall well-being of employees.

How did the idea of bike leasing come about?

Our procurement team put this initiative on the agenda with the support of the Facility Director and the HR Director, and it was quickly embraced by management. Bike leasing fits perfectly within Zorgpunt Waasland’s HR policy and values. We aim to be a sustainable and approachable organization that offers employees a fair, transparent and — in this case — flexible compensation package.

By 2023, we already have more than 100 bikes leased through Cyclobility. Thanks to excellent service, combined with internal promotion and the ambassador role of users, around 35 additional bikes may be added in 2023.

In addition, through various initiatives under the “Happy@work” banner, Zorgpunt Waasland regularly encourages its employees to stay active. Offering bike leasing to our staff fits perfectly within this approach.

How is the collaboration with Cyclobility?

The collaboration is very positive. Agreements are respected and communication between Cyclobility and Zorgpunt Waasland is clear.

The support, both towards the HR department and on an operational level (for bike leasing users), is excellent. Questions are handled quickly and correctly, and in case of issues, solutions are found through mutual consultation.

How did the information process and employee activation go?

Initially, information sessions (digital — COVID) and test moments were organized, allowing our staff to try out different models and receive advice from Cyclobility. In addition, there is a dedicated website for employees, full of information, with an extensive offering (webshop) and a section with frequently asked questions and answers.

The leasing platform is clear and user-friendly, both for end users and HR. Once colleagues are registered, they can easily navigate the portal and calculate their bike lease. The support provided by Cyclobility through its partner (Ilse Pauwels, PHR) is also a clear added value.

It is also important to note that the offering is very extensive. Employees can lease an e-bike , but also choose from various sporty bikes.

How do employees experience bike leasing through salary exchange?

Bike leasing has been warmly received within the organization. Employees of Zorgpunt Waasland can choose to use part of their end-of-year bonus to lease a bike. The tax benefit provides an additional incentive to participate in bike leasing .

For employees working in home care services who use their leased bike as their main mode of transport, the system is cost-neutral thanks to the bike allowance. Those who cycle a lot can even earn a little extra! Overall, experiences with bike leasing at Zorgpunt Waasland are very positive.

Interested in implementing bike leasing in your healthcare organization as well? Then contact Cyclobility for a tailor-made solution that fits your organization.