The DNA of the family business
VADO is a Dutch investment company founded by the Van Doorne family. After the sale of the DAF companies in the 1970s and 1980s, VADO focused heavily on investments in the manufacturing industry. The uniqueness of the family business, the entrepreneurship and the interest in technology and innovation is therefore still present at VADO. Our focus is on companies with a passion for technology that provide added value to people and society with their innovative solutions.
We are a long-term investor and attach great value to entrepreneurship. Every company is given the space to pursue further healthy growth through innovations and acquisitions. Our team consists of people with extensive experience in the industry. We are interested in technology and always eager to get to know new companies and entrepreneurs.
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Investment focus on manufacturing companies
VADO invests in manufacturing companies, where technology is omnipresent. Craftsmanship plays a crucial role and the development of employees receives a great deal of attention. We strive for a match between the people and culture of the company and those of VADO.
VADO invests in sustainable growth with a long-term vision, cooperating with our companies to build a future beyond short-term profits.
Our investment focus is mainly on companies in the following sectors:
- Hightech & Semicon
We specialise in the production of precision parts and mechanical assemblies that meet the most stringent standards for accuracy and hygiene requirements – Read more - Food Manufacturing
Companies that specialise in the design and manufacture of complex, high-value systems and products – Read more - Energy and Energy transition
Companies whose unique expertise or technology contribute to reduced energy consumption and the energy transition – Read more
Everything starts with a personal connection
Having a cup of coffee, thinking together about entrepreneurship, strategy and culture, is often a first step to determine whether there is a good connection between an entrepreneur and VADO. We find it important to know what the entrepreneur’s ambition is and what their plans are for the company.
We invest from a long-term perspective and strive for a partnership in which the entrepreneur is given all the freedom they need to grow the company in a healthy way. We support the management by, for example, helping them consider the necessary development of the organisation, accelerating growth by enabling acquisitions (“buy & build” development), elaborating strategic options, and providing growth capital. We bring in expertise, enjoy exchanging ideas with management, and stimulate cooperation and the sharing of knowledge between our companies.
Before a potential acquisition of a company, we always take time to get to know each other and to see to what extent we fit together. When both parties have a good feeling about the sale of the company, we take the next step.
Entrepreneurial companies
Group of companies specialised in the manufacturing of high-quality mechanical components
Specialist in internal handling and transport systems and turn key solutions for the industrial bakery market
Specialist in sustainable heating and lighting solutions for business environments
“Anvil Industries is a group of companies that complement each other seamlessly to serve the high-tech industry.” Although we are a group of companies under VADO ownership, we have a high degree of independence. Entrepreneurial behaviour is taken as the starting point for healthy cooperation.”
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“Culobel has been part of the VADO family for nearly 30 years. That in itself is unique! I have been leading Culobel for 25 years and have always enjoyed working for VADO. The no-nonsense entrepreneurial mentality greatly appeals to me. Culobel has grown strongly over the past 20 years, and this was only possible due to the personal support and space you and your company get at VADO.”
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“VADO makes it possible to do business with the spirit of a family company, a high degree of family culture, and with the necessary expertise to act as a 'sounding board' at group level. This brings out the best in entrepreneurs.”
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"We prefer to invest in manufacturing companies because they contribute to a healthy economy, by creating jobs and through their innovative character. Each member of our investment team has extensive experience in the manufacturing industry. Consequently, we can be a good sparring partner for the management of the company on all aspects of the business, from the numbers to our people and beyond. This is how we build the future of our companies, together."
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"For many years, Winterwarm has been a close-knit team that, with a passion for innovation and sustainable solutions, makes an important contribution to the current Energy Transition in Europe. We have introduced new sustainable products and techniques through our own development in recent years. VADO gives us the necessary freedom and space to continue doing business, as well as the confidence with the investment in our new sustainable premises in Winterswijk. With this, we are ready for the future on all fronts."
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