Change of ownership for Vermeer dealer

Equipment manufacturer's exclusive dealer becomes part of Debe Flow Group. (Photo: Vermeer)

Vermeer Viking, the exclusive dealer for equipment manufacturer Vermeer, has been acquired by family-run investment and development specialist Debe Flow Group.

Established in 2011 by longstanding Vermeer EMEA team members André Hoondert and Judith Hazelager-Hoondert, Vermeer Viking will now operate as a standalone business under Debe Flow, which recently agreed a deal that saw it become the company’s majority shareholder.  

Oscar Heydorn, CEO of Debe Flow Group, said, “We join Vermeer Corporation in honoring the customer-centric foundation laid by the Hoondert family over the last decade-plus.

“Looking forward, Vermeer Viking will build upon that foundation to support our customers who do important work in Sweden and Norway.”

Under the terms of the buyout, previous owners André Hoondert and Judith Hazelager-Hoondert will retain both a minority share in the company and their existing leadership roles. 

While the equipment dealer will also continue to operate its current locations in Sweden and Norway, its new owner said it “has a long-term, growth-minded vision for Vermeer Viking”, which in 2014 was recognised with a H. M. King Carl XVI Gustaf’s Royal Pioneer Entrepreneurship designation.

Debe Flow, which distributes Swedish-made water supply and geo-energy equipment across Europe said, “This means that customers and team members can expect consistent support and a promising future.”

Commenting on the acquisition deal, Andre Hoondert, CSO of Vermeer Viking, said, “I feel incredibly excited and privileged that our team and family can join this organization. We look forward to new goals and growth.”

Vermeer opens Global Parts Distribution Center Pella, Iowa-based facility will support global customers and dealers with aftermarket parts