Van Wezel, based in Rijnsburg, and De Hooge Waerder, headquartered in Alkmaar, have entered into a strategic partnership to establish a new platform in the accountancy sector. This collaboration, announced in October 2026, involves shared ownership at the group level, allowing both firms to pursue growth ambitions without sacrificing their unique identities.
Unlike typical consolidations where smaller firms lose autonomy, Van Wezel and De Hooge Waerder emphasize cultural alignment as the foundation of their partnership. Willem van Duijn, director at Van Wezel, explains, “We chose a partner that fully aligns with our culture, people, and clients. De Hooge Waerder stood out for its craftsmanship and personal involvement, values we share deeply.” Both firms had independently sought ways to maintain control over their growth trajectories rather than ceding it to larger platforms.
De Hooge Waerder previously secured investment from Abenex, a growth-focused investor that supports companies while preserving their culture. Abenex continues to play a key role by enabling this partnership financially. Van Duijn notes, “Abenex provides the resources to invest in people, quality, and technology without compromising our identity. They are not a firm that swallows offices and changes them.” The collaboration is structured so that both firms retain their names, management teams, and operational independence, with shared ownership ensuring aligned interests.
A significant driver behind the partnership is the acceleration of technology adoption, particularly artificial intelligence and automation. Van Wezel has already developed an internal working group focused on data warehousing and AI applications, aiming to enhance client service and employee efficiency. Wilbert Star, director at Van Wezel, states, “Technology offers enormous opportunities to improve our work. Alone, we could not maintain the pace needed. Together, we can accelerate seriously.” Despite these internal changes, clients and staff will experience continuity in service and personal contact.
Both firms stress that growth is a means to an end, not a goal itself. Pieter van Stempvoort, chairman of De Hooge Waerder, says, “Growth is necessary to future-proof our organization and provide prospects for our people. We recognized in Van Wezel a partner facing the same challenges and sharing the same values.” The partnership aims to build a platform where each affiliated office recognizes shared culture, standards, and values, focusing on craftsmanship and genuine client engagement.
The collaboration also includes a participation program allowing employees to invest in the platform, supporting long-term succession and engagement. Martijn van Rijn, director at Van Wezel, emphasizes the human element: “This is for the entrepreneur who calls tomorrow, the client who wants us to be here in ten years, and our people who want to enjoy their work now and in the future.” Joost Beers, director at De Hooge Waerder, adds, “Ultimately, it is about the human dimension: our people and our clients.”
The partnership strengthens their combined market presence in the Rijnsburg and Alkmaar regions amid rapid consolidation in the accountancy sector. It offers a differentiated alternative to large platforms by preserving independence and culture while scaling operations. Challenges remain in aligning governance and maintaining client loyalty, but both firms are committed to a balanced approach that safeguards their identities.
Looking ahead, Van Wezel and De Hooge Waerder plan to leverage their combined expertise and resources to expand their service offerings and invest in technology. This strategic alliance positions them to compete effectively in a consolidating market while staying true to their core values.
