Clearwater International advises de Jong & Laan on its sale to Waterland

Clearwater international has advised de Jong & Laan, a progressive accounting and advisory organisation in the north, east, and central regions of the Netherlands, on its sale to Waterland, an independent investment company that assists entrepreneurs in realising their growth ambitions.

Over the years, de Jong & Laan has grown into a workforce of 750 people across 23 branches. In addition to accounting and tax advice, the organisation provides its 10,000 plus clients – mostly SME entrepreneurs in a wide variety of sectors – with high-quality specialised advice in such areas as corporate finance, subsidy, human resources, IT, and family.

With significant financial resources and thorough sector knowledge, Waterland enables its portfolio companies to grow faster, both organically and through acquisitions. In addition to its office in Bussum in the Netherlands, Waterland has offices in 10 other European countries and manages approximately €10bn in capital.

The partnership with Waterland enables de Jong & Laan to expand its high-quality and leading position in the Netherlands. In addition to a financial boost, Waterland brings proven expertise in accelerated growth through M&A. The partners of de Jong & Laan will reinvest in the new management organisation that arises from Waterland’s investment, with both parties agreeing in accordance with accounting legislation, that control over auditing activities will remain with de Jong & Laan’s accountants. The daily management remains in the hands of de Jong & Laan’s board.