IJslander, a successful company with a focus on sports and play has been a part of CROWD group since its inception (2012). Both IJslander and CROWD fostered a harmonious relationship over the years, resulting in significant investment and growth. With IJslander achieving record financial success in 2024, CROWD and the management of IJslander, led by John Franken, jointly agreed the timing was ideal for the management to acquire 100% of the IJslander business from CROWD.
“CROWD’s strategy remains tightly focused on Cycle and Street Infra, whilst IJslander’s key focus remains on play. As both CROWD and IJslander have jointly fulfilled their obligations and long-term strategy together, the timing is perfect for both CROWD and IJslander to pursue and fulfil their next milestones in growth individually. I would personally like to thank John Franken, along with his team for his efforts towards CROWD and IJslander, along with the relationship we’ve fostered over the 8 years I’ve been in position. I wish John and the management of IJslander well with the continued success and growth of the business.”, said James Steward, CEO of CROWD GROUP.
“For years both IJslander and Crowd companies have managed to work successfully together. It has also shown that whilst the synergy effects we have achieved work well in many areas, they are limited due to the different market focuses the businesses have. Resulting that moving further on at this stage separately was the most logical step. We have always enjoyed working with the other companies in the CROWD GROUP. We have also benefited greatly from each other in terms of sharing knowledge. I wish James and all other companies within the CROWD GROUP the best and thank them very much for the pleasant cooperation.”, said John Franken, Managing Director of IJslander.
About CROWD & IJslander
IJslander has been building on the future since 1996. They teach children and young adults how to discover more about themselves and the world around them. They show adults that playtime can still be fun. And they challenge the elderly to remain fit and active. IJslander do this with durable, low-maintenance and 100% recyclable sports and play equipment made from only the strongest of materials.
Creators of the Outside World (CROWD) has been driven by a commitment to transform outdoor public spaces. Since inception, CROWD have sought to establish themselves as the leading provider of street furniture, public shelters, and bicycle parking infrastructure across Western Europe. CROWD was founded in 2012, via its buy & build strategy, executed in the main the last 4 years, it consists now with the divestment of IJslander, 6 companies, namely Armada mobility, Lumiguide, VelopA, ZIEGLER, HITSA (including LAMPAS) and Bailey Street Furniture Group (including Cyclepods). Group turnover is more than €140 mio, with a total of 10 main office locations throughout 8 countries and 4 production locations.
