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Last summer, just after completing his MBA at INSEAD, young entrepreneur Jard van Heerde decided to launch Ventus Succession, a self-funded SF in the Netherlands. He chose the self-funded route to maintain greater flexibility and focus on the seller’s needs. He was looking to acquire a healthy company in the Netherlands with an EBITDA ranging from €0.8M to €2M, and his bet has paid off. In less than seven months, he successfully acquired Socho IT, a leading Dutch company specializing in subscription management and IT solutions for publishers. This acquisition marks the beginning of a new era of professionalization and growth. Both sellers, Bob van der Horst and Marco Clerx, who have led the company since its inception in 2001, will remain involved and contribute to the next phase of expansion.
With its flagship product, Zeno, Socho IT is a specialist in administrative software for publishers and media companies. Offering a comprehensive suite of solutions, Zeno enables customers to digitize their operations, work more efficiently, and implement innovative revenue models. Since its founding, Socho IT has grown into the market leader in the Netherlands. Zeno is renowned for its flexibility and robustness, seamlessly integrating with customers’ existing systems.
Founders Bob and Marco commented: “We are proud of what we have built with Socho and believe this is the right time to take the next step as a company. Jard brings the right energy and vision to further grow Socho and prepare it for the future.”
Jard van Heerde added: “I am impressed with what the team at Socho has achieved—the software is of exceptional quality and highly valued by leading customers. In my first weeks, I have witnessed firsthand Socho’s customer-centric approach. Thanks to our flexible software and excellent service, many customers have remained with Socho for years. I see tremendous opportunities to further develop the product and expand the company in the Netherlands and Belgium.”
Future growth plans include the release of a new subscription module and the professionalization of marketing and communication efforts.
