In Amersfoort, entrepreneur Jeroen Speksneijder has created SPEKTAKEL, a unique store blending flea market finds, vintage goods, and new products. Known as the funniest store in the Netherlands, it thrives on curated treasures and a hands-on shopping experience.
In the industrial district of Amersfoort, Netherlands, a unique retail experience thrives under the stewardship of entrepreneur Jeroen Speksneijder, who five years ago founded a store that defies traditional classification. Named SPEKTAKEL, the shop combines elements of a flea market, vintage boutique, department store, and museum, offering a diverse array of items ranging from furniture and vintage advertising materials to toys and clothing. The mixture includes both vintage and new products, with individual treasure hunting at its core.
Speksneijder, whose retail career spans over two decades and began in Soest, explains that the choice of location was intentional: “People really have to make an effort to come here, and when they do, I know they won’t leave empty-handed.” His philosophy for SPEKTAKEL is simple. “I only want to sell fun stuff to nice people,” he told Interior Business magazine. After previously stepping back from retail due to burnout, Speksneijder experienced a renewed passion upon discovering this industrial hall, deciding to focus solely on items he personally enjoys selling.
Operating a business built on eclectic selections requires a robust sourcing strategy. Speksneijder has cultivated a network of traders primarily in Belgium and France, embarking on regular weekend trips every two to three weeks with an empty van, returning fully loaded with goods. “People also contact me with items, and if it’s worth it, I go visit and buy it,” he explained. His inventory preferences are fluid, often shifting; he shared, “The last thing I bought is always my favorite,” noting a recent acquisition from Ibiza of chairs from an old club.
The store’s combination of new and vintage reflects his own home environment, blending the charm of both. SPEKTAKEL’s appeal extends to various customers—including private consumers, horeca professionals, designers, and stylists—demonstrating its broad allure despite its niche appeal.
An engaging aspect of the shopping experience is a cash payment system utilizing a vintage pipeline to transport money from the counter to the cash register—”just like they used to do in department stores,” said Speksneijder with a smile. This feature complements the store’s playful aesthetic and namesake.
Behind the scenes, his wife manages administration, social media, and the online shop, contributing significantly to the store’s operations. Their son has also shown interest in joining the business, continuing the family involvement. Birthdaying his twenty years in the industry and opening SPEKTAKEL amidst the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, Speksneijder acknowledges the difficulties: “I actually feel like I’m two years behind, and I want to catch up.”
Connection with customers is important, and Speksneijder remains the store’s figurehead. “If I’m not there, they might be disappointed,” he said, emphasizing his role in the store’s identity. Nonetheless, he employs additional staff to assist on busy Fridays and Saturdays.
Recognition for SPEKTAKEL came recently when it was voted the Funniest Store in the Netherlands by the shopping public. “I’m so happy about that; I really didn’t expect it. I’m super proud,” said Speksneijder. He considers the store’s turnover and returning customers as the most meaningful compliments: “The store is doing well, and people keep coming—that’s really great.”
To ensure the authenticity and value of vintage items, Speksneijder relies on a network of knowledgeable contacts. “You can’t know everything, but together we figure it out.” He specifically mentioned collaborating with a Belgian friend who, despite his own store, sometimes hesitates to sell items, with Speksneijder helping boost his confidence in negotiation.
Looking to the future, Speksneijder hopes the store remains much as it is today. “In a few years, I’ll still be happily working hard in the store and still be driving my route every 2-3 weeks, looking for new things. Who knows, we might find more time to really enjoy things, but again: it won’t get better than this for me.”
SPEKTAKEL stands as an example of a retail venture driven by passion and curation, a destination for those willing to seek out a mix of excitement, nostalgia, and well-selected surprises in a singular setting.
Source: Noah Wire Services
