Carconnex started buying up ex-leasing cars in 2003. Car sales then evolved rapidly, so Carconnex had to adapt every time.
And successfully.
Last year, Carconnex had a turnover of more than 160 million euros. Since 2020, openthebox has been one of the strategic tools used by Carconnex.
Rapidly changing market
“We started buying ex-leasing cars and selling them in Eastern Europe,” says business manager Joeri Vanhumbeeck.
“In 2007, the market changed and we started selling young used and new cars. The 2008 crisis was a stroke of luck for us because back then there was a huge range of these types of cars. '
“When the problem of overstock eased, we switched to pre-ordering new cars, and we are brand independent. This allows us to buy cars when they are at a good price. '
Supplier screening
“Once a year, we screen our suppliers. We do this by looking at a number of things in open the box such as turnover, whether there are staff and the result. '
“For example, we recently had an IT provider on the floor. The story this man told sounded good. However, it became silent when we confronted him with the question why he had 3 failed companies in the past. We showed it to him in black and white on the website of open the box. '
“But we also sometimes do checks with new customers via openthebox. There is sometimes a big talk in the car sector. If a potential customer ends up selling x number of cars and we doubt that, we simply verify that in openthebox. '
“With openthebox, I follow what's happening in the automotive world.”
Joeri Vanhumbeeck, Carconnex business manager
Finger on the pulse
“With openthebox, I follow what's happening in the automotive world. There is always a lot of money in circulation when buying and selling cars. That's why I check the important customers and suppliers in openthebox. '
“Issues such as a change in the articles of association or a new director can have an impact on our business. For example, if our contact person resigns as director, we'll know that as soon as possible. Openthebox is also useful for that. '
