Andrea Landeweer

Andrea: "Koomen Installation was established in 1914 as a plumbing company and over the years evolved into a comprehensive service and maintenance company currently managing around two hundred properties. We first encountered Rembrandt in 2015 when I – along with my colleagues Dennis Anema and Sebastiaan Sheombar – acquired the shares from the former owners of Koomen. Rembrandt M&A guided us through that Management Buy-Out, and it was a highly satisfactory experience. We realized then how beneficial it is to have an expert partner by your side, especially when you lack experience in such matters. The advisors from Rembrandt communicated very clearly and understood perfectly what we wanted.

After the MBO, the three of us successfully operated the company for many years with great pleasure. We managed to grow and further professionalize the organization. After about seven years, we felt it was time for the next step, but we had no intention of acquiring another company ourselves. Eventually, as shareholders, we decided to search for a suitable acquirer who could take Koomen to the next phase.

Given our positive experience in 2015, we naturally turned to Rembrandt again. After thorough preparation and reaching out to the right parties in the market - both nationally and internationally - we were ultimately acquired by the VDK Group in the fall of 2023. The group comprises more than 3,500 employees, spread across over sixty installation companies. They not only offered a fair price but also provided the assurance that Koomen could largely retain its own identity. That immediately gave us the right feeling.

Once again, Rembrandt provided excellent guidance throughout this process. Their meticulous approach stands out: they present a well-thought-out plan of action, including a well-founded valuation, and precisely advise on the optimal timing to enter the market. Additionally, they possess an in-depth understanding of the industry; they know exactly what information should or should not be disclosed. And I haven't even mentioned all the practical matters, such as compiling a thorough information memorandum and guiding us through the due diligence process. It's very reassuring to have an advisor who leads you through this process and takes all worries off your hands.

Naturally, during such an acquisition, numerous questions arise regarding finances, IT structure, and various legal matters. Meanwhile, the business must continue to operate smoothly. As a CEO, you're accustomed to setting the course yourself, but an acquisition process is a unique and impactful event in an entrepreneur's life where you don't easily have all the reins in your hands.

At such times, it's comforting to have a partner like Rembrandt, who thoroughly understands the world of mergers and acquisitions, by your side. They offer the guidance and tools you need at that moment. Moreover, the people at Rembrandt are easily approachable; for instance, it's reassuring to be able to message them even on weekends if you have concerns, and they can promptly put your mind at ease.

When we first engaged with each other eight years ago, Wouter Jolie was involved as a consultant from Rembrandt M&A. So, it was a pleasant surprise for us that Wouter once again guided us in this most recent acquisition, this time as a director. That immediately gave us the familiar feeling we were looking for. A great example of where a long-standing relationship can lead."

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