Years after their last meeting, Henk Lever, already owner of a picture and photo frames supplier, and Hans de Vet ran into each other. They knew each other, decided to join forces at EFKA and introduced unique textile frames to the international market. They are now approaching retirement age and found a buyer to ensure the company’s continuity and realise growth opportunities in Swedish investor Lifco.

Marktlink’s assignment was clear from the start, Koen Rutten remembers. Together with team members Okkie den Boon, Teije Hiltermann and Alex Blekkink, he guided EFKA through the transaction. “Henk and Hans gave us their full trust during the sales process. They wished to transfer all their shares and step back as soon as possible. In the course of the process, interest increased and on top of that, the business outperformed expectations. This combination of factors enabled us to roll out an exemplary and well-structured process with an exceptional result.”

Targeted choices in preparation

The smooth sale process was partly due to Henk and Hans coming well-prepared. Okkie: “A few years ago, they made targeted choices in preparation for this step. The men appointed Ids Boersma as their new CEO, transferring all operational responsibility to him. Ids will continue to fulfil that role in the new situation, while Lifco will primarily support the company’s further professionalisation and internationalisation.”

This means more growth for the Frisian company, that will continue under the name EFKA after the acquisition. “Apart from a new owner and even more growth opportunities, not much will actually change,” Teije adds. “Fluctuating prices of raw materials have had a substantial effect on many manufacturing companies recently. EFKA is doing rather well, however, because they do much more than just producing frames. It is a highly service-oriented company, taking care or its customers’ every need.”

Succeeded wonderfully well

Henk Lever looks back on the process with satisfaction: “Our assignment was clear: find a partner that will not only benefit the owners, but also the future of the company. Marktlink’s team in Drachten succeeded wonderfully well. Involved, in-depth knowledge, professional and transparent. In short: real value for money. I highly recommend Marktlink for the sale of your SME business!”