Jan Ollevier: The Titanic Empire of 437 Million Euros in Furniture Distribution
Jan Ollevier
Jan Ollevier, notable founder in the distribution sectoris at the helm of several leading brands across Belgium and the Netherlands. Its businesses include brands such as Exteriooa specialist in garden furniture, and Juntoowhich offers a wide range of home furnishings. These two brands are managed under the holding company BelivingThis strengthens their reach and vertical integration. Jan Ollevier has created a fortune of over €437,289,200.
Expansion and Growth
Since the initial acquisition by Vendis Capital in 2016, which then owned 26 % of the company, Jan Ollevier has pursued an aggressive growth strategy. In March 2023, he took over Vendis Capital's entire stake in Beliving, once again becoming the majority shareholder. This acquisition consolidates his control over the Exterioo and Juntoo brands, facilitating rapid and effective strategic decisions.
Infrastructure and Logistics
A key element of Jan Ollevier's expansion strategy is linked to logistics infrastructure. In 2020, he will acquire a majority stake of 51 % in the new company WDPort of Ghent Big Box. The project, located in the port area of Ghent, involves the construction of a 150,000 m² central logistics warehouse, the equivalent of around 50 soccer pitches. This logistics hub will serve as the central storage and distribution point for Ollevier's 80 stores in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Total investment in this ambitious project amounts to 80 million euros. Vendis Capital owns 20 % of the company, while the remaining 29 % are held by logistics specialist WDP Warehousing of the De Pauw family, who is also in charge of the project.
Diversification and digitization
In addition to physical expansion, Jan Ollevier places a strong emphasis on the digitalization of its businesses. The integration of a new ERP and online platform modernization follow this trend. These initiatives aim not only to improve operational efficiency, but also to enhance the customer experience. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, these digitalization efforts have gained momentum, facilitating rapid adaptation to new market requirements.
Brand Portfolio and Market Position
The brands under Jan Ollevier's management boast a diversified, modular offering. X²O Badkamersalso managed by Ollevier, is a key player in the Belgian bathroom market, with 18 sales outlets in all major regions. The product range extends from bathroom furniture to high-quality accessories, ensuring complete coverage of customers' needs.
With 19 stores for garden furniture and 8 for home furnishings, Exterioo enjoys a strong presence, offering a modular range at the best value for money. This competitive business model has enabled the brand to consolidate its position as market leader. on the Belgian garden furniture market.
The reorganization and rebranding of the Overstock brands into Exterioo and Juntoo is part of a wider strategy of focus and specialization, aimed at optimizing each market segment and capitalizing on the strengths of each brand. Jan Ollevier has built an empire stores and assets of over 400 million euros.
