2025-04-08

The experts at Troostwijk Auctions travel daily across the Netherlands and Belgium to compile the most attractive auction offerings. With their knowledge of the industry, their involvement with both sellers and buyers, and a big smile on their faces, they ensure that everything surplus for one company becomes a new beginning for another.

 

For almost 2.5 years, Arjan Averink has been working as an account manager at Troostwijk Auctions, focusing on the agricultural sector. Before that, he was active for many years at a traditional marketplace in the same sector until he was persuaded to move into the digital world of online auctions. And with success — but above all, with great pleasure.

 

Arjan feels completely at home among farmers, contractors, and other entrepreneurs. Communication is direct, honest, and quick. No complicated fuss, just a message or a call. “No frills. It’s the accessibility that really appeals to me in this sector. Sometimes I literally get a message: ‘Hey Arjan, I’ve got a shed full. Come have a coffee.’ And that’s where the story begins.”

 

Trust, Network, and the Likeability Factor

According to Arjan, the strength of a good account manager doesn’t lie in selling machines but in building relationships with people. “You really need three things: a network, trust, and the likeability factor. And you build those by talking to people. A lot of it is word of mouth.” Understandably so, as it often involves major decisions, like ending a family business — a step not taken lightly.

 

“We often have conversations in the evenings at people’s homes because the staff doesn’t know yet. Those are tough, emotional conversations. Multiple generations are involved. There’s literally blood, sweat, and tears in such a business. Then it’s important to stand by the people, show that you understand their situation, have expertise, and know the market and the playing field.”

 

The Power of Scale and Reach

According to Arjan, online auctions are not only transparent and efficient but especially scalable. In a traditional sale, you might sell one or two tractors; online, you reach a much larger audience — leading to better results. “Selling one or two tractors anyone can do. But selling five, ten, or a hundred in a week? That’s a different story. We are simply the very best at that.”

 

The secret? The massive reach of Troostwijk Auctions. “We have such a large bidder database. Entrepreneurs who have been in the business for decades still meet new parties through us. Buyers from more than 175 countries — that really makes a difference.”

 

Memorable Stories

Every auction has its own story, but some stay with you. Arjan shares a story about a family chasing their dream: “There was a family that wanted to emigrate to France. They needed another €150,000 to make it happen. Thanks to the auction, over two hundred thousand euros were raised. They started working there with a special cattle breed. I happened to see an update about their farm on LinkedIn recently. Then you realize: I really made a difference. That’s beautiful.”

 

Challenges in the Sector

At the same time, Arjan also sees how tough agricultural entrepreneurship has become. Regulations, nitrogen measures, restrictions on crop protection, and shrinking margins make the profession increasingly difficult. “It’s gotten to the point where current entrepreneurs are questioning whether it’s wise for the next generation to take over the business.”

 

Dynamism and Innovation

It’s precisely that resilience that makes the agricultural sector so special, according to Arjan. “It’s a very dynamic and innovative sector. When you see everything that has happened and been achieved in recent years… Incredible strides have been made. That also makes it a wonderful sector to work in.”

 

Curious about what Troostwijk Auctions can do for your business?

Contact Arjan Averink via a.averink@tbauctions.com.