"You just don't see the solution anymore."

Mike Emmelkamp, ​​entrepreneur with a restart in 2010

“As responsible and interim manager I had extensive experience in retail. Opening a private clothing store was therefore a logical step. In 2006 I started my first business in Almere. It was a flying start and so soon a second store opened.

In 2008 the idea for a third branch was born. Everything was calculated by the accountant and was well received by suppliers, bank and landlord. Unfortunately, as the opening approached, financial difficulties arose. Despite the green light that we had received, the bank's account manager turned out not to have the loan on its way. It was carrying water to the sea and the problems were mounting.

After all, the store opened its doors in 2009, but after three months it turned out that we had not done our homework properly. Instead of growth, the store shrank. Not only did the new center attract far fewer visitors than expected, but the recession was just around the corner. The result: in 2010 we were technically bankrupt.

I was an emotional wreck and exhausted by the whole situation. The problem had also become so big, I could no longer see the forest through the trees. If you look at the items that we ultimately had to clean up ... I got the name of an external consultant from a good customer. This man grabbed me by the scratch and said "that's how we're going to do it." He really took me by the hand and, as it were, raised me again for entrepreneurship. Then it turns out that strange eyes view your company very differently. That gets you moving. This advisor also helped me with the Bbz process.

Ultimately, you will notice that the problems within your company are not as complex as you think, but that you no longer see the solutions due to all the stress and worry.

Finally, through the Bbz of the Social Affairs department of the municipality of Amsterdam, we were referred to Zuidweg & Partners. After an introductory meeting with the account manager, we were sent home with clear agreements. To begin with, we had to submit the requested data.

After studying this information, the insolvency adviser of Zuidweg then started a debt settlement. The literal message was: “We are going to arrange it; forward all messages from creditors to us ”. A whole stool! It was a very close collaboration and very clear. Everything had to be discussed and structured. In the end we even fought to the judge. And this was also perfectly prepared and we won. I can only say that it has been a pleasant cooperation with a team of skilled people who really go for it to the end!

Thanks to the restructuring, we have made a successful restart. At this moment, we have got things completely back on track! ”