Refinancing Poiesz Supermarkten: ready for the next generation 

In 2024, Poiesz Supermarkets took an important next step in its growth ambitions. Founded in 1923, this family-owned business has grown into a well-established name in the north of the Netherlands, with 83 stores across five provinces. This solid foundation formed the starting point for the next phase.

To support its future plans and ensure a smooth generational transition, Poiesz launched an accelerated investment strategy.

“We aim to expand to 90 stores, redevelop parts of our real estate portfolio and complete the full transformation of all our branches,” says Aletta Bannink, CFO of Poiesz. “With increasing financing needs, we had to bring a second bank on board. That was new territory for us, which is why we engaged Orchard Finance.”

Guidance through a new financing process

The partnership with Orchard began in the summer of 2024. The first step was to develop a financial model based on a thorough analysis of the existing funding structure and investment plans. After the summer, the refinancing process kicked off with a formal request sent out to various banks.

By November, the preferred banks were selected, followed shortly by the appointment of external legal counsel. For Poiesz, this was the first transaction based on LMA standards, and we intentionally took the time to do it right.
The documentation process began after the Christmas break, and closing took place in early March 2025. Orchard Finance guided Poiesz through negotiations, liaised with legal teams, and helped prepare all documentation in line with LMA standards.

“From the very beginning, we knew exactly what to expect. We were always one step ahead and well-prepared for each new phase. That gave us peace of mind and kept everything clear,” Aletta explains.

Nicolai Knop, Partner Debt Advisory at Orchard Finance, adds: “A project like this demands strong technical expertise and careful process management. Our collaboration was seamless. We complemented each other well and adapted smoothly.”

Making room for growth

This refinancing gives Poiesz the flexibility it needs to move forward with its strategic goals.
“We can now invest in new locations and redevelop our real estate without compromising our day-to-day operations,” Aletta says. “That provides exactly the space we need.”

Trust and expertise as the foundation

What impressed Aletta most was the overall quality of service provided by Orchard.
“They are always alert, sharp, and fully committed from start to finish. Whether it’s advising on the financing structure, managing the RFP, supporting negotiations, coordinating legal documentation or overseeing the project timeline – they’re there every step of the way.

Project management is often underestimated, but in this kind of process it’s essential. Everything was well-structured, and when a quick response was needed, it came quickly and effectively.” 

Orchard also felt like a true extension of the internal team. Aletta concludes: “Nicolai combines calm with momentum. His communication is clear and efficient, which allowed us to move quickly and complete the process with confidence.”