Successful sale of Vendu Rotterdam to a trusted partner
The Cooperative Association Notarishuis has Vendu Rotterdam sold to Wim Moerman. With this takeover This marks the end of more than two centuries of ownership of the Rotterdam auction house, which was owned by the local notary. The buyer, who has been involved with the organization for over 30 years, is taking over the reins with the ambition to further develop Vendu Rotterdam and ensure its continuity. Match Plan assisted the shareholders throughout the sale process.
209 years of notarial ownership passed
Since its founding in 1812, Vendu Rotterdam was the only official auction house in Rotterdam, originating from an initiative of Rotterdam notaries. The organization grew into a well-known institution in the city and remained under the control of the notary's office for 209 years.
Switching to private ownership
Notary Astrid Fokkema Schute, chair of the board of the Cooperative Association, emphasizes the historical importance and the motivation behind the sale:
“When the auction house was founded around 1812, the initiative came from several Rotterdam notaries to jointly purchase a building to create a single, permanent location where all public auctions could take place: the 'Rotterdam Notary House.' Over the next 209 years, this Notary House evolved into a fully-fledged and widely recognized official auction house: the BV Vendu Notarishuis. Then, and still today, the only such establishment in Rotterdam.
This auction house is owned by a group of 48 Rotterdam notaries. It was no longer considered appropriate for these 48 individual members to also be responsible for its operations. This prompted the board to seriously consider selling the auction house when an enthusiastic buyer presented themselves.
As a board, we are delighted to have been able to sell the auction house to Wim Moerman, who has been involved with Vendu Rotterdam in various capacities for over 30 years. This buyer is firmly committed to working with the enthusiastic team to maintain Vendu Rotterdam as a "jewel for the city" and uphold its reputation.‘
Vendu in trusted hands
Wim Moerman is no stranger to Vendu Rotterdam. He worked for the auction house for many years as an auditor and served on the board of the Cooperative Association for the past ten years. In his new role, he aims to build the auction house's future together with the existing team and transport partner Jan den Otter, emphasizing quality and service.
“I'm very proud to lead this wonderful institution. My predecessors established an auction house that has earned its place in the auction industry. Together with the team and our transporter, Jan den Otter, we continue to expand the auction house. Quality and service are paramount. I'm grateful to the notaries for their confidence in me and the team to ensure the auction house's future success for decades to come.” according to Moerman.
Match Plan as an advisor during sales
Match Plan guided the Cooperative Association Notarishuis throughout the entire sales process. This included negotiations and drafting the letter of intent and the purchase agreement. The deal was completed under the guidance of Hans van de Pas and Reg Schreurs of Match Plan. Their involvement and expertise contributed to a successful transaction, giving Vendu Rotterdam a solid foundation for the future.
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