Since mid-2024, Klap Insurance Broker (now part of The Ardonagh Group) and Hogenhouck M&A have been working closely together. Hogenhouck m&a supports Klap Insurance Broker in implementing its buy-and-build strategy within the Dutch insurance market. This collaboration stems from Klap’s ambition to grow further through targeted acquisitions, in addition to organic growth. One guiding principle is central to this approach: partnering with intermediaries who share a recognizable DNA and a common vision for the future.
“Intermediaries with whom we identify and with whom we see a clear fit are approached by Hogenhouck for an initial discussion about their long-term goals,” said Jasper Breeman, who is responsible for M&A at Klap Insurance Broker.
Hogenhouck m&a also sees this collaboration as a natural fit. Rik Stikkelbroeck, Founding Partner of Hogenhouck m&a, explains: “From our very first meeting—which took place at the recommendation of Jorg Roodbeen, former CEO of Klap and now a member of the Advisory Board—we had a clear understanding of what Klap stands for. By thoroughly understanding Klap’s DNA, organization, and ambitions, we are able to focus our daily efforts on identifying intermediaries with whom a sustainable partnership is possible.”
Together with Tijs Koolen (an analyst at Hogenhouck M&A), Rik is closely involved in the day-to-day management of this process. Klap and Hogenhouck M&A have now been working together for over a year and a half, which has resulted in five successful acquisitions.
According to Leon Knottnerus, M&A Manager at Klap, nothing is left to chance in this process: “Klap is a demanding client. We don’t just look at the numbers; we also focus on the company’s profile, its management, and its relationships with customers. Ideally, there’s a match across the board.”
Following an initial meeting, if there is mutual interest, a follow-up meeting with Klap takes place, typically joined by Jasper Breeman, Leon Knottnerus, or other members of management. If the follow-up is positive, the process moves forward expeditiously but carefully. After signing a non-disclosure agreement, a request for information is submitted, following which Klap issues its expression of interest. We then work toward a letter of intent and an audit of the books, which usually takes up to six weeks.
“The process is straightforward and efficient, without losing sight of the human aspect,” said Leon Knottnerus. “The insurance industry remains a people-oriented business. It is precisely through our local presence and direct lines of communication that we can truly take the burden off business owners and individuals.”
For Hogenhouck M&A, too, that human element is decisive. Tijs Koolen: “An acquisition can effectively be completed within five to six months, but haste is rarely a good advisor. We believe it’s important that entrepreneurs feel heard and that their future and the legacy of their company take center stage. That’s what makes the partnership with Klap special and valuable.” The five joint acquisitions to date confirm this approach and leave us wanting more.
