Secondary Lease Market Pivots to Business Sector as Demand for Flexibility Rises
Amsterdam, Thursday 15 January 2026
As businesses demand greater mobility flexibility, lease transfer platforms are transitioning from consumer niches to commercial sectors, evidenced by LeaseSwap’s strategic appointment of Jaap Cuperus to drive corporate expansion.
Reshaping the Digital Lease Landscape
The landscape of vehicle leasing in the Netherlands is witnessing a significant transformation, moving away from a strictly consumer-centric model. Historically associated primarily with private drivers seeking to exit contracts early, the secondary market for lease transfers has broadened its scope to encompass business leases and short-term arrangements [1]. This structural shift was highlighted on 14 January 2026, when LeaseSwap appointed Jaap Cuperus as General Manager, a strategic move designed to navigate this expanding commercial playing field [5].
Strategic Leadership for a Changing Market
Cuperus’s appointment is not merely administrative; it signals a robust push towards professionalisation within the sector. With extensive experience in e-commerce and the automotive industry, he is tasked with scaling the platform and refining its digital propositions [2]. René van der Laan, LeaseSwap’s founder, emphasised that Cuperus brings the necessary ‘energy and entrepreneurship’ to lead the company through this next growth phase [2]. The objective is clear: to solidify a national position by professionalising processes and partnerships, ensuring the platform can meet the demands of corporate clients [2].
The Drive for Flexible Mobility
Underpinning these corporate manoeuvres is a fundamental change in market dynamics. The demand for lease transfers is increasingly driven by businesses adjusting to new mobility policies and a heightened awareness of costs [1]. Consequently, platforms are de-emphasising the distinction between private and business users, focusing instead on the neutral function of matching supply with demand [1]. This approach aligns with a broader trend where flexibility and ‘flow’ take precedence over rigid ownership structures, necessitating clearer communication regarding contract types [1].
Digital Adaptation and Accessibility
To accommodate these developments, platforms are redefining their roles to lower entry barriers for users. The aim is to create a more efficient orientation process, ensuring that the positioning of these digital services can adapt to future regulations and contract types [1]. As Cuperus noted upon his appointment, the future of the sector is promising precisely because of this ‘increase in lease contracts and the call for flexibility’ [2]. This evolution suggests that recent rebranding efforts in the industry are not cosmetic, but rather a direct response to the structural demands of the digital economy [1].