Van Koolen, a producer of innovative plant-based food products, has secured a strategic investment to facilitate further growth and product development. Hogenhouck M&A advised the family-owned company throughout this process.
Innovation and Sustainable Growth
Van Koolen, which is active in the cultivation and production of both raw materials and finished products, creates flavorful products made from mushrooms, vegetables, and plant-based proteins. Transparency, recognizable ingredients, and sustainability are central to the development of their innovative product line.
Strategic Strengthening
With this investment, Stefan van den Hanenberg joins Van Koolen. With his extensive experience in vegetarian product development—including stints at Dalco Food & GEA—he brings valuable expertise to the company’s next phase of growth.
Although Van Koolen remains closely tied to Koolen Champignons, this investment lays the foundation for a more independent future. Koen Koolen: “This step enables us to scale up more quickly and make a greater impact. The growing demand for plant-based foods calls for innovation and quality, and with Stefan, we’re strengthening our team on both fronts.”
Expansion of Production Facility
As part of its growth strategy, Van Koolen is opening an additional production facility in Medemblik. This will enable the company to produce more efficiently, scale up more quickly, and serve new markets with innovative products. The new facility will also serve as a hub for product development and collaborations within the plant-based food sector.
A Strong Foundation for the Future
With this strategic move, Van Koolen is ready for its next phase of growth. This marks an important milestone in the company’s mission to make sustainable and flavorful food widely accessible, under the motto: We farm, we create, we care.
The M&A Process
Hogenhouck M&A advised Van Koolen on this process through Mark van Beusekom, Albert van den Pol, and Bart van ’t Zet. Mark van Beusekom: “Finding the right match was crucial for the next phase of growth for this promising family-owned business. With this investment, Van Koolen can accelerate the realization of its ambitions in the areas of innovation and sustainability.”
