Woonmodule focuses on further growth

Jacco and Rik van Achterberg, two entrepreneurial brothers, acquired a majority stake in Woonmodule in September 2024. Current director Joris van Hoytema remains closely involved.

Jacco and Rik will co-lead the company with the current manager, Hamza. Jacco will serve as Commercial Director, while Rik will take on the role of Technical Director. Joris will continue to contribute to the company with his expertise as an architect, focusing primarily on product development and innovation.

Woonmodule offers digital solutions for the housing market and has experienced significant growth in recent years. It has has built a broad customer base in the housing market, including real estate developers, builders, and architectural firms. Woonmodule is particularly well-known for its award-winning Housing Configurator, which allows buyers to design their new homes online.

Time for an interview!

What prompted you to enter into this partnership?

Joris: Woonmodule is now a well-established name in the new-build market. To take the next step in terms of growth and innovation, I needed reinforcement. When I met Jacco and Rik, we connected immediately. Their enthusiasm and expertise perfectly complemented the needs of Woonmodule.

Jacco: My brother and I had long wanted to start a business together. When we were introduced to Joris through mutual contacts and met for coffee at Bazar, a restaurant on Witte de Withstraat, just around the corner from Woonmodule's office in Rotterdam, we instantly had a great connection.

Why are you interested in the housing market?

Rik: With my background in software development, I’ve worked extensively on digitalization and process improvement. The housing market is an area where there’s still a lot of progress to be made in these areas. Woonmodule has already made significant strides in improving the customer journey, and we want to further optimize this with data-driven technology.

Jacco: Besides its social relevance, the housing market is also a growth sector. This is where our strengths complement each other: Rik’s expertise is in software and digitalization, Joris has deep knowledge of architecture, and I focus on commercial growth and internationalization. Together, we see many opportunities to further expand Woonmodule, both in the Netherlands and abroad.

"Woonmodule believes that buyers of new-build houses deserve a better experience than what is often currently offered."

What does this mean for Woonmodule’s vision?

Jacco: We’ve discussed this extensively with Joris and the team. Woonmodule believes that buyers of new-build houses deserve a better experience than what is often currently offered. By using digital tools, the purchase process can become much more customer-oriented and efficient. That’s something Rik and I fully support.

Rik: Absolutely, we are convinced that further digitalization can lead to a much more optimized customer journey. By smartly using data, we can gain insights into our customers’ needs and preferences, resulting in a smoother development process and satisfied homeowners.

What will be your first steps?

Jacco: Our first priority is to engage with customers and partners. We’ve already noticed that Woonmodule frequently receives cakes from satisfied customers after a successful development project. Our goal is to maintain that positive relationship—but hopefully not with too much cake, as I’m trying to watch my figure!

Rik: There are already many great ideas within the team for new features, products, and services. We also regularly receive requests from existing customers. Together with the team, I’ll work on further developing and prioritizing these ideas on our product roadmap. We see a lot of potential in applying AI to make our services even smarter and more personalized.

"By smartly using data, we can gain insights into our customers’ needs and preferences."

Joris, how does this new situation feel for you?

Joris: For me, it feels like a natural evolution of the company. I’m happy that Jacco and Rik are on board so that I can fully focus on where my passion lies: housing and innovation. It’s reassuring to know that Woonmodule is in good hands, and I’m looking forward to taking the next step in our growth together with this team.

What will customers notice from this?

Jacco: Our customers will notice that Woonmodule continues to innovate and grow. We remain committed to providing the same high-quality service, with an even stronger focus on digital solutions that help our customers move forward.

Rik: Additionally, our customers can look forward to new features and products that further optimize the processes before, during, and after the home sale.

Joris: We now have even more strength to meet our customers’ needs. I also have many ideas for solving challenges our customers face with products, maintaining the same taste and quality they’ve come to expect from us.

How do you see the future of Woonmodule?

Jacco: We are determined to take Woonmodule to the next level. With our team, including the expertise of Hamza and his team, plus Joris’ creativity, we have everything in place to play a leading role in the digitalization of the housing market. We already have a few clients outside the Netherlands, so we’ll also cautiously explore opportunities abroad.

Joris: It’s inspiring to see how Woonmodule continues to evolve. Together, we are building not only homes but also the future of living. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve already achieved and look forward to the next phase with confidence.

"Together, we are building not only homes but also the future of living."

If people want to meet you?

Jacco: Absolutely! Whether it’s customers, partners, or other interested parties—feel free to drop by for a good cup of coffee with a view of the Erasmus Bridge.

Joris: And who knows, the conversation might end with a new project or an exciting collaboration!

• 26 September 2024