Dutch EdTech Platform aNewSpring Acquires TrainTool to Boost Video Training
Rotterdam, Friday 4 September 2026
Dutch EdTech platform aNewSpring has acquired TrainTool to integrate video-roleplay technology, enhancing practical, measurable communication skills training for corporate clients worldwide.
Bridging the Gap Between Knowledge and Application
In an era where digital transformation dictates corporate competitiveness, Rotterdam-headquartered learning journey platform aNewSpring has finalised its acquisition of Utrecht-based TrainTool [1][2]. The transaction, which was completed on 30 July 2026 and publicly announced on 3 September 2026, marks a significant step forward in corporate software-as-a-service (SaaS) capabilities within the Benelux region [1][2]. While the financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, the combined entity now boasts a workforce of approximately 65 employees, serving enterprise clients across every continent [1][2]. Founded in 2003, aNewSpring has spent 23 years establishing its presence, with offices now spanning the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Turkey, and Albania [1].
Integrating AI Coaching and Video-Based Learning
The acquisition allows aNewSpring to embed TrainTool’s specialised video-roleplay technology directly into its broader blended learning journeys [1][2]. TrainTool, which was founded in 2012 and has spent 14 years developing communication training software, allows users to respond to realistic video scenarios and receive feedback from peers, human trainers, or automated AI coaches [1][2]. This interactive system directly addresses a common bottleneck in corporate training: the transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application. Dennis Valkema, CEO of the aNewSpring group, noted that knowledge is no longer the scarce commodity, but rather the ability of organisations to apply it [1][2]. By combining aNewSpring’s ‘Training Optimisation’ service—which tracks behavioural change rather than simple course completion rates—with TrainTool’s active practice tools, the group aims to offer a fully measurable learning ecosystem [2].
A Long-Term Strategy for Scalable Growth
Rather than forcing an immediate merger, the two companies plan to integrate their operations gradually [1][2]. Throughout the course of 2027, TrainTool and aNewSpring will step-by-step transition into a single operating organisation [1][2]. According to TrainTool’s co-founder, Marijn de Geus, this integration provides the necessary scale to make video-roleplay widely accessible to aNewSpring’s existing client base, while allowing TrainTool customers to access broader learning journey features [1][2]. Valkema has emphasised that this acquisition is the first phase of a broader, long-term corporate strategy focused on internal development, acquisitions, and partnerships, describing the expansion plan as ‘a marathon, not a sprint’ [1][2].
Consolidation Across the Benelux Digital Economy
This transaction highlights a wider trend of consolidation and strategic alliances across the Dutch digital economy, as SaaS and fintech platforms seek scale to better serve business customers [GPT]. Just one day prior to the aNewSpring announcement, on 2 September 2026, RISK Verzekeringen acquired a majority stake in the Soest-based comparison platform Vergelijkdirect.com [3]. Vergelijkdirect.com, which was established in 2013 and facilitates over 100,000 comparisons annually for consumers and entrepreneurs, had been collaborating with RISK since 2018 [3]. This majority acquisition is designed to accelerate product development and scale digital applications specifically for the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) insurance market, demonstrating how legacy financial sectors continue to digitalise through targeted platform partnerships [3].