A bankrupt Dutch children's furniture maker leaves behind a considerable debt burden, financially affecting not only customers, but also crowdfunders and the tax authorities. This is according to the first bankruptcy reports of trustee Guido Roest. 
Causes of bankruptcy
Bopita, known for its baby playpens and complete children's rooms, was struggling with declining sales, rising costs and falling margins. An attempt to switch from physical shops to a web shop failed, leading to the bankruptcy of three companies behind the company in late 2023.
Consumers and investors suffer
Many customers who paid for furniture in advance risk losing their money. Trustee Roest says that the bankruptcy affects a large group of consumers and that the settlement is taking a long time.
In addition, reports show that crowdfunders through the platform GeldVoorElkaar have been hit hard. As recently as April 2023, Bopita raised €750,000 through this route. The investors, who were promised an interest rate of 10.5%, submitted a claim of €672,000. Although collateral has been provided, it is uncertain whether this has sufficient value to repay the debt.
Tax authorities largest creditor
The Tax Authority has a significantly higher claim than the crowdfunders. The tax authorities are demanding €1.4 million from the operating company and another €200,000 from the parent company Lion International B.V. for overdue tax payments.
Source: RTL
More information:
Lion International B.V.
www.bopita.com
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