The experts at Troostwijk Auctions travel across the Netherlands and Belgium every day to put together the most attractive auction offerings possible. With their industry knowledge, commitment to both sellers and buyers, and a big smile on their faces, they ensure that everything surplus for one company becomes a new beginning for another.
Twelve years ago, Peter Lechat started working at Troostwijk Auctions in Belgium. At the time, the organization was still small and relatively unknown. Today, it’s a prominent international platform with enormous reach and a solid reputation. “Over the years, I’ve auctioned off virtually everything with wheels or an engine,” says the account manager, who focuses on the agricultural sector, with a smile. His years of experience have made him a familiar face within the industry.
What started with clients bringing their machines to the warehouse has evolved into a full-service operation on location, with Troostwijk Auctions literally coming to the customer. And the scale of the auctions has grown along with it. “Back then, it was rare to sell a machine worth €50,000. These days, we easily sell tractors, forklifts, and trailers worth over €100,000 – and not just one, but several at a time. That says a lot about the trust in our platform.”
Experience and Empathy
Peter knows better than anyone how impactful an auction can be for an entrepreneur. When he himself once faced financial difficulties with a business, he came into contact with Troostwijk Auctions again. Financial hardship brings a lot of emotions, including sadness and possibly shame. “I truly understand how some entrepreneurs feel. I bring that experience into every conversation.”
But auctions are no longer just a last resort in cases like bankruptcy. “More and more successful entrepreneurs realize they have machines sitting around barely being used. Often, that expensive tractor only runs 25% of the year. Why not sell it, free up cash, and invest in more efficient equipment – or outsource the work to a contractor?”
Recently, an analysis by Troostwijk Auctions revealed a sharp increase in voluntary auctions. In the first quarter of 2025, Troostwijk Auctions saw a 30% rise in voluntary auctions compared to the same period last year.
Challenges and Differences
The agricultural sector faces significant challenges, Peter emphasizes. Legislation around emission standards, electrification, and increasingly strict environmental rules are making farming more complex. “In Belgium, we’re slightly behind the Netherlands, so the pressure is a bit less for now. But those regulations are coming here too. Meanwhile, it’s getting harder to attract people to jobs in agriculture.”
That’s why, for Belgian entrepreneurs, it often makes more sense to sell machines that are considered ‘outdated’ here to customers in other parts of Europe. “In Balkan countries, they’re thrilled with reliable equipment. They face fewer environmental regulations. And that’s exactly our strength: we find the right buyers, in around 175 different countries.”
By maximizing the lifespan of machines through online auctions, Troostwijk Auctions also helps reduce the need for new equipment production – which significantly avoids CO2 emissions.
A Platform That Delivers
More and more agricultural entrepreneurs are discovering online auctions as a valuable sales channel. Not just court-appointed trustees, but also voluntary sellers are now choosing Troostwijk Auctions. “A dealer has to make a margin. They often offer less. Through us, entrepreneurs usually get a better price because we attract both national and international buyers.”
The evolution is clearly visible. Where the platform was once mainly used by dealers, it is now increasingly used to sell directly to end customers. “That shows that online auctions have grown into a mature and widely embraced alternative.”
From Client Relationship to Friendship
When asked which auction he remembers most, Peter laughs. “There are so many. But what I value most isn’t the machines we’ve auctioned – it’s when client relationships turn into real friendships. That also says something about the nature of the sector. It’s a people business, built on trust and strong relationships. That’s something I truly invest in.”
After twelve years, Peter’s passion for the sector remains as strong as ever. “Agriculture isn’t the easiest sector, but it’s one full of character, resilience, and a huge drive to keep innovating. And I’m glad I can play a part in that.”
Curious what Troostwijk Auctions can do for your company? Get in touch with Peter Lechat at p.lechat@tbauctions.be.
About Troostwijk Auctions Troostwijk Auctions believes that everything has value and is driven to make digital auctioning the best way to add value for business sellers and buyers. The digital auction platform optimally connects local, convenient and fast sales with global demand. They do this by combining the power of their people, technology and data. This is how Troostwijk Auctions builds a profitable business, rewards their people and extends the life of goods to reduce waste and emissions. Each year, Troostwijk Auctions auctions more than 1 million lots for companies in sectors such as agriculture, food, metal, construction, earthmoving and transportation & logistics. The company has an average of 4 million visits to the platform per month, local sector specialists throughout Europe and buyers in 175 countries. For more information about Troostwijk Auctions: https://www.troostwijkauctions.com/
