Unique in many aspects: that’s what sets 706 Seating Group apart. Through a partnership with AVerest Capital, this European private-label supplier of high-quality (office) chairs is now able to accelerate the development of its distribution channels. More opportunities to tap into new markets have also opened up as a result.

706 Seating Group was founded 15 years ago by Bob and Esther Herber following the development of its first chair model, the ‘706’. In a predominantly traditional market, the business mainly sets itself apart through the manner in which it invests and innovates. It has a significant part of its supply chain under its own management, sustainability and reuse of materials are important core values and its innovative HR policy genuinely puts people first. With decisive and responsible entrepreneurship, Bob and Esther Herber — together with a team of around 50 employees and agents — have grown the business into an international specialist with an extensive portfolio and a strong European dealer network.

Responsible and sustainable enterprise

On Marktlink’s side, Petra Borkent, Merel Smink and legal specialist Simone van Haarlem made up an all-female deal team. A focus on people and an eye for sustainability were the main cornerstones in the search for suitable partners. “There was a significant amount of interest, including from abroad,” Petra recalls. She and Merel were tasked with selecting the right candidates. At the end of the process, AVerest Capital proved to be the best match. The partnership with AVerest marks a new milestone since the establishment of 706 Seating Group.

The husband-and-wife team are confident about the future. “With the appointment of Erik Kramers as a director at 706 Seating Group five years ago, we already invested in the company and made a decisive move to be able to take the next step. Now, we can actively forge the further growth and development of this organisation together with AVerest Capital.” Managing partners Albert Koops and Vincent Pieterson at AVerest Capital echo this sentiment: “706 Seating Group is a fantastic business that sets itself apart through supply chain management and innovation. That gives us lots of opportunities to seize when it comes to new markets, sourcing and marketing, both domestically and abroad. We look forward to sharing our knowledge with them.”

European interest in Dutch SMEs

European interest in Dutch SMEs that operate internationally has been on the rise for several years. “We expect this increased interest to lead to a significant rise in the number of international acquisitions,” Petra and Merel point out. “Marktlink is anticipating this development by opening offices outside of the Netherlands, so we can be closer to the international market. Plus, we can build on the experience we gain as part of every deal in future acquisition projects.”