Guido van Tongeren

Guido: "In 2017, I became the sole owner of the family business, founded by my grandfather Henk van Tongeren in 1949. The company doubled in size in 2021 with the acquisition of two companies from Alkmaar: Theo van Velzen Grondboortechniek and Bronbemaling, and Tjaden Adviesbureau voor Grondmechanica. After such a significant dual acquisition process, without an acquisition advisor, you don't immediately think about another acquisition.

That changed when, at the beginning of 2022, I was approached by an advisor who presented an opportunity to acquire a groundwater management company from the southern region of the country. Given the relatively small size of the groundwater management market, I quickly suspected that the company in question was Raaijmakers en Zn. from Volkel: a reputable family business that I had long admired and desired to acquire.

My suspicion was confirmed. At that point, it became crucial to act swiftly and professionally, as there were likely other interested parties. Through our primary bank, Rabobank, Robert and I were connected with Rembrandt M&A the same evening, and the following morning, we were already seated with acquisition specialist John Hoekman. One thing was clear from the outset: we needed to submit a competitive offer as soon as possible.

To demonstrate our commitment, we personally visited the advisor's office a week later to deliver our well-founded proposal. The fact that financing was already nearly secured at that time undoubtedly contributed to our credibility. This highlighted the significant value of the partnership between Rembrandt and Rabobank: it allowed for swift action on all fronts.

Speed and professionalism were the distinguishing characteristics throughout this entire process. While Rembrandt's team ensured thorough analysis and sound justification, they also understood the importance of tight timelines. I'm someone who values efficiency, so it was reassuring to find partners in Rembrandt and Rabobank who share the same drive.

This was evident right from the start with John and his colleagues: they grasp the intricacies of acquisitions, possess industry knowledge, and recognize the need for prompt action. Rembrandt knows precisely what is required at each stage; I will certainly engage them again for our next acquisition.

In the end, we successfully closed the deal with Raaijmakers, and I dare say that Rembrandt M&A more than justified their involvement in this process. Thanks to their efforts, we have been able to integrate this outstanding company into our own operations, propelling us to become the largest groundwater management company in the Netherlands. Without John and the team, achieving this milestone may have been beyond our reach."

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