VAN DRIEL CAPITAL

Empowering Brands to Maximize Value & Achieve Successful Exits


ABOUT VDC

Van Driel Capital (VDC) empowers e-commerce brands to unlock their full value and achieve impactful exits. We guide brand owners through each step of the complex, often unfamiliar journey—ensuring the business is fully prepared, strategically positioned, and managed for a high-value outcome.

With a focus on precision and results, we oversee every aspect of the exit process, making it a seamless and rewarding experience for our clients.

OUR SERVICES

With 8+ years in e-commerce and M&A, Van Driel Capital offers a full range of services to elevate clients' businesses, maximize their value, and ensure a seamless transition.

From strategic advisory to full exit management, our focus is on making exits smooth, rewarding, and transformative for founders.

  • Our Strategic Consulting provides our clients with a thorough assessment and actionable strategies to prepare for a high valuation exit, adaptable to any stage of growth or timeline.

  • Our exclusive Pre-Exit Management Consulting service provides intensive, hands-on management to position your e-commerce brand for a future exit, maximizing its valuation potential through meticulous, high-touch preparation.

  • Our Exit Management service encompasses every aspect of the sale process, providing complete, high-level oversight to ensure a seamless and life-changing exit.

  • To be announced in 2025.

ABOUT OUR FOUNDER

Meet Wouter van Driel, the founder of Van Driel Capital. Wouter started his first e-commerce brand at 22, strategically entering Australia’s emerging market and growing it to millions in sales. As he navigated rapid growth, he tackled big challenges—like managing cash flow and negotiating with key suppliers—without a clear playbook. When he discovered the potential in exit strategies, he dove into acquisitions and eventually sold his brand to a London-based investor.

After selling his brand, Wouter was sought out by others in the e-commerce space looking for guidance on exiting their own brands. He went on to advise numerous founders, helping them prepare and manage their exits with precision.

This path led him to create Van Driel Capital, where he now uses his expertise to help e-commerce founders achieve life-changing exits. Today, VDC partners with brands valued up to $50M, working with founders ready to realize their full potential and with buyers seeking high-quality acquisition opportunities.

For Wouter, building trust and real connections is at the heart of every partnership. In environments where millions are at stake, it’s essential to work with people who share a mutual vision. Outside of work, he loves hiking, spending time with family and friends, and playing piano, keeping him grounded and true to his values.

PREVIOUS CLIENTS & TESTIMONIALS

  • Nathan Harlaar

    Founder Balzy

    “Van Driel Capital has truly changed my life. Because of the exit they guided me through, I was able to fund my new startup and accelerate growth much faster than I’d imagined. The connection with VDC has been invaluable, and we’re still in touch as I continue to build my next venture.”

  • Robin Ootes

    CEO Control Talent

    ‘"Selling my e-commerce brand with Van Driel Capital opened many doors I hadn’t anticipated. Their guidance not only helped me secure a highly profitable exit but also allowed me to focus fully on my new company. I hadn’t realized just how much potential there was in a well-prepared e-commerce exit."

  • Mickey Woodley

    Founder Moovv

    ''Wouldn't have wanted to make an exit with any other company. The informal style combined with expertise made it a no-brainer for me to do the exit with VDC. ''

  • Jordy Kuijpers

    Founder Ninn

    Positioned for a 7-figure exit in Q1 2025 this entrepreneur is fast-tracking his exit readiness with strategic insights gained from Ecom Exit Academy. Following this significant milestone, he's set to become a major player in the real estate sector, laying the groundwork for lasting financial freedom for both his family and himself.

  • Samuel Onuha

    Founder ICON

    One of the biggest titans in ecom, this entrepreneur received an offer exceeding seven figures, including equity options. Fueled by the drive to elevate his business even further, decided to aggressively expand, steering towards an extraordinary exit valued over 8-figures. The optimization strategies and insights gained from consulting enhance the company's trajectory towards monumental success.

  • Duncan den Elzen

    Founder Lillys

    '‘Couldn't have done it without VDC, I would have no idea what to do, how to go through the process and genuinely think nothing would have happened at all.''

  • Alexander Chen

    Founder BRIGHT Sport

    Through consulting, this entrepreneur is establishing himself as one of the most promising young entrepreneurs worldwide. The insights and strategies acquired will be used to set up new companies with a strong foundation. With the world at his feet, he's not just moving to his next venture; he's equipped with the knowledge to build an empire.

  • Marcus Burman

    Founder

    ‘‘Working with Wouter has been great! Unlike other brokers who've got 10+ clients and you get little attention, Wouter dedicates way more of his time to you. He’s able to explain and walk you through the entire process from start to finish, so the service is much more than just finding a buyer. Once the brand is ready to put on the market he’s swift with jumping on calls and vetting potential buyers. For someone who’s doing an exit for the first time this was very helpful.’’

FAQs

  • The timing is up to you, but being exit-ready at all times is essential. If you aren’t prepared, you risk missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime, “golden ticket” offer—and that opportunity might never come again.

    Always being ready to exit puts you in control, allowing you to choose the best path forward for your brand on your terms, whether that means seizing a great offer or continuing to grow.

  • You should be preparing from day one. Founders who wait for “perfect” conditions often end up with lower valuations and fewer options. Brands that delay exit readiness lose leverage, end up at the lower end of the multiple, and ultimately leave significant money on the table. Building an exit-ready brand from the start gives you control and ensures you’re positioned to seize the best opportunities when they arise.

    Early preparation not only boosts your brand’s valuation but also strengthens its financials, operations, and margins, positioning it for both growth and an optimal exit.

  • Failing to prepare for an exit can put everything at risk. We’ve seen several eight-figure brands face declining revenue, operational setbacks, and even collapse because owners were unprepared for sudden changes in the market or a shift in their own passion.

    With most of your wealth tied up in your business, a lack of preparation can lead to devastating financial consequences, leaving you with limited options when you need them most.

  • The reality is that only 20% of those who intend to exit actually succeed, often due to overwhelming complexity, delays, and missteps.

    Many M&A firms add unnecessary layers, risking both time and valuation. Van Driel Capital brings years of experience, making a daunting process straightforward. We handle every detail to help you avoid costly mistakes and achieve a successful exit.

  • Profitability alone isn’t enough—without clear, organized financial records, your brand’s exit potential is severely compromised.

    Many owners assume profitability speaks for itself, but buyers scrutinize every detail. Financial clarity is crucial; without it, you risk reduced offers, delays, or even failed deals. To secure the strongest position, your financials must be impeccable from the start.