Dutch ebike brand VanMoof declared bankrupt

VanMoof

VanMoof has been in trouble for some time. Many cyclists complained about defects in their expensive electric bicycles. VanMoof’s sudden popularity also caused severe growing pains. It seems that VanMoof was no longer able to pay the interest on its loans with private investors. The bicycle brand paused its sales two weeks ago.

The financial problems were partly due to the company's strategy. VanMoof has focused on rapid growth in recent years but its service capacity was not able to keep it with sales. Bicycle owners sometimes had to wait months for parts or repairs. This resulted in many consumer complaints.

Questions

VanMoof offers a list of frequently asked questions about the situation on its website. Amongst other things VanMoof states that it aims to keep its app and servers running so that customers can continue to use them. Open orders for bikes, accessories and parts are currently not being processed. This may change if the company is sold to a party willing to continue VanMoof’s activities. Bikes that were in a VanMoof shop in the Netherlands for repair can be picked up.

Claims

The court has appointed two trustees to handle the bankruptcy. VanMoof's website reports that customers will be notified about how to report their claims to the trustees.

The European Consumer Centre also offers a sample letter that can be used to file your claim with the trustees.

The appointed trustees are:

Mr J.A.H. Padberg and Mr R.P.A. de Wit
P.O. Box 7925, 1008 AC Amsterdam
Telephone: +31884070444

Please note that consumers are often the last parties to receive refunds. There is therefore little chance that you will get your money back (in full). It may also take some time before you receive a response from the trustees.

European Consumer Centre

Due to the bankruptcy, unfortunately the European Consumer Centre can no longer mediate in complaints against VanMoof.