The experts at Troostwijk Auctions travel across the Netherlands and Belgium every day to put together the most attractive auction offerings possible. With their industry knowledge, dedication to both sellers and buyers, and a big smile on their faces, they make sure that everything surplus to one business becomes a new beginning for another.
For almost 2.5 years now, Arjan Averink has been working as an account manager at Troostwijk Auctions, with a focus on the agricultural sector. Before that, he spent years at a traditional marketplace in the same industry, until he was convinced to make the switch to the digital world of online auctions. And with success – but above all, with great enjoyment.
Arjan feels right at home among farmers, contractors, and other entrepreneurs. The communication is direct, honest, and fast. No complicated fuss, just a quick message or call. “No nonsense. That’s what I love about this sector – it’s so accessible. Sometimes I literally get a message saying: ‘Hey Arjan, I’ve got a barn full. Come by for a coffee.’ And that’s where the story begins.”
Trust, network, and likability
According to Arjan, the strength of a good account manager isn’t in selling machines but in building relationships with people. “You really need three things: a network, trust, and likability. And you build those by talking to people. A lot happens through word of mouth.”
Which makes sense, because often these are major life decisions. Like closing down a family business – something you don’t decide lightly. “We often have those conversations in the evenings at people’s homes because the staff doesn't know yet. They’re difficult, emotional talks. Multiple generations are involved. There’s literally blood, sweat, and tears in such a business. That’s when it’s important to stand beside them, to show you understand their situation, know the market, and understand the playing field.”
The power of scale and reach
According to Arjan, online auctions are not just transparent and efficient – they’re especially scalable. Where traditional sales might mean selling one or two tractors, online you can reach a much larger audience – and get better returns. “Anyone can sell one or two tractors. But if you want to sell five, ten, or even a hundred in one week? That’s a whole different story. And that’s what we’re simply the best at.”
The secret? The enormous reach of Troostwijk Auctions. “We have such a massive bidder database. Entrepreneurs who’ve been in the business for decades still end up connecting through us with buyers they’ve never encountered before. Buyers from more than 175 countries – that’s what truly makes the difference.”
Memorable stories that stick with you
Every auction has its own story, but some stay with you. Arjan shares one about a family that followed their dream: “There was a family that wanted to emigrate to France. They still needed €150,000 to make it happen. Thanks to the auction, they raised over €200,000. They moved there to start working with a special cattle breed. Funny enough, I recently saw an update from their farm on LinkedIn. That’s when you know: I really made a difference here. That’s beautiful.”
Challenges in the sector
At the same time, Arjan sees how challenging agricultural entrepreneurship has become. Regulations, nitrogen measures, restrictions on crop protection, and shrinking margins make the business tougher. “It’s gotten to the point where current entrepreneurs are questioning whether it’s wise for the next generation to take over the business.”
Dynamism and innovation
But it’s that resilience that makes the agricultural sector so special, according to Arjan. “It’s such a dynamic and innovative industry. When you look at everything that has happened and been achieved in recent years... So many incredible steps have been taken. That’s what makes it such a great sector to work in.”
Curious about what Troostwijk Auctions can do for your business? Contact Arjan Averink at a.averink@tbauctions.com.
About Troostwijk Auctions Troostwijk Auctions believes that everything has value and is driven to make digital auctioning the best way to add value for business sellers and buyers. The digital auction platform optimally connects local, convenient and fast sales with global demand. They do this by combining the power of their people, technology and data. This is how Troostwijk Auctions builds a profitable business, rewards their people and extends the life of goods to reduce waste and emissions. Each year, Troostwijk Auctions auctions more than 1 million lots for companies in sectors such as agriculture, food, metal, construction, earthmoving and transportation & logistics. The company has an average of 4 million visits to the platform per month, local sector specialists throughout Europe and buyers in 175 countries. For more information about Troostwijk Auctions: https://www.troostwijkauctions.com/
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