After seventy years, Contracting Company R. van Vliet in Akersloot came to an end at the close of 2025. Founded in 1955, the family business stood for generations for craftsmanship, reliability and commitment. For Renate and Ruud van Vliet, the decision to stop was not an easy one, but it was a conscious choice.
A few years ago, it became clear that there would be no succession. The children did not wish to take over the business, and there were no internal alternatives either. “It was emotional,” Renate explains. “Especially because so many employees have worked here for such a large part of their lives.” Some had been with the company for 35 years; others had seen Renate and Ruud grow from the age of sixteen into seasoned professionals. Until the very last moment, everyone remained closely involved.
A conscious choice for Troostwijk Auctions
To conclude the business properly, Renate and Ruud deliberately chose Troostwijk Auctions. The scale of the organisation, its European reach and its expertise in complex business closures inspired confidence. Equally important was the personal connection with Troostwijk Auctions’ account manager Arjan Averink, as well as the support of Tom Hendriksen and Elio Egas, who provided excellent assistance with photography and the collection of equipment.
“In a process like this, you want people around you who feel right — both professionally and personally. That ultimately made the difference for us.”
Tight planning, strong interest
Initially, Renate and Ruud planned to hold the auction in the spring of 2026. On the advice of account manager Arjan from Troostwijk Auctions, they decided to move the auction forward. Towards the end of the year, investment appetite for machinery tends to be high — advice that proved valuable.
The auction went live on 18 November. The viewing day took place on the morning of 6 December. That same afternoon, Renate and Ruud celebrated the company’s 70th anniversary and said farewell to employees and business relations. The coincidence of these moments made it a special but emotionally intense farewell. The auction closed on 8 December.
Video footage (in Dutch) courtesy of the Van Vliet family.
Results well above expectations
The final proceeds exceeded expectations by a wide margin. “We were particularly anxious about the newer machines,” Ruud says. “But in the end, those also performed well. The result truly surprised us in a very positive way.”
A dignified farewell
The combination of the viewing day, the anniversary and the auction gave the farewell extra meaning. “It felt like a natural moment to close this chapter together,” Renate reflects.
Now that the business has concluded, Renate (61) and Ruud (63) are taking things at a slower pace. Ruud has kept a few small machines so he can continue to tinker from time to time, while Renate looks after the grandchildren one day a week.
“Thanks to Troostwijk Auctions, we were able to close this chapter with a very good feeling.”