Those who regularly pass by the Prinsenweg in Vierpolders in the Netherlands will not believe what they are seeing when visiting the agricultural community of Brielle, Voorne-Putten. On this spot where as little as five months ago nothing but fallow ground could be found now an ultramodern greenhouse complex of 5 Ha has arisen. Following the advice of WLTM broker Jaco Eeltink entrepreneurs choose to realize the new construction project.
How to determine where to start a new establishment? The broker can be very important in this process. Jaco Eeltink was recently approached by entrepreneurs who wanted to expand their nursery. "The possibilities, however, of taking over existing greenhouses were close to zero." Partly following the advice of WLTM broker Jaco Eeltink they started looking at other agricultural areas.
Close to the Westland
"I did not want to move too far away from the Westland, taking the travel distance to our other branches into account," according to one grower. It turned out that there were few well-running greenhouse vegetable companies. Partly fueled by the fair ground prices and low interest rates the bank offered the option of new development. Various agricultural areas offering various ground positions came into view, among which an agricultural location of 32 hectares in Vierpolders. Eelting: "I had already tried to acquire this location for three agricultural entrepreneurs before the agricultural crisis, but without success." At that time an offer of several times the current price was not sufficient. This time the WLTM broker was not without success. Shortly before the summer an agreement with the city of Brielle was made regarding the sale of a piece of land of about 12,5 hectare, offering space for the phased construction of 10 hectare of greenhouses.
Proper risk assessment
The entrepreneurs are happy with the support they are given by WLTM broker Eeltink. "Back in the day it was possible to buy a piece of land as a grower, but that is no longer possible." They are, among other things, referring to the increasing environmental technical and legal issues coming up when acquiring land. "Jaco is well versed in this matter, particularly regarding legislation." This came in very handy when a few local people protested against the new construction plans. "Jaco drew up a proper risk assessment, taking the possible delays into account that could result from those protests."
No room for delay
Since the completion date of the new construction could not be delayed because of the beginning of the cultivation season, construction had to start right away. "With his extensive legal knowledge Jaco managed to give a clear overview, and managed to convince me as well as the bank." The protests of the residents was partly met by creating a grass strip, hiding several silos from view. "On the other hand you are dealing with residents who do not want any green because of hindrance of leaves. Someone who knows the ins and outs is very handy in a stressful period, dealing with protesters and governmental assessment."
Network important
Knowing an agricultural area from top to bottom and having an extensive network are essential characteristics of a good broker. "Jaco´s network turned out to be very valuable in the acquisition of the new premises in Vierpolders. He knows the local aldermen and that has surely been an advantage."