In De Ondernemer: Temper speeds up growth and crosses swords with trade unions: 'Too much of a pushover'

Eduard Roach

The Entrepreneur, July 25, 2023

Summary:

Eduard Voorn's article for de Ondernemer provides a detailed account of Temper's journey as an entrepreneurial venture amidst pandemic challenges. The article delves into the company's history, challenges, and triumphs, highlighting its unique approach to avoiding algorithms and artificial intelligence.

Founded in 2016 by Niels Arntz, Paul Eggink, and Jeroen Jochems, Temper addresses inefficiencies between supply and demand in the job market. Like an exciting boys' book, the platform's success story hinges on a straightforward revenue model: a fixed amount for each hour worked. With over 200,000 registered workers serving 10,000 companies, Temper has proven successful, emphasising empowerment for workers in choosing when, where, and why they work.

However, the pandemic posed a severe challenge to the company, causing significant financial strain and prompting a change in leadership. The emergence of Niek van Leeuwen as CEO marked a pivotal moment for Temper. Despite painful layoffs and financial setbacks, Temper's adaptability shone through. The platform diversified beyond the catering industry, reducing costs while tapping into new sectors such as agriculture and supermarkets.

As the catering industry and other sectors reopened, Temper bounced back, forming the basis for European growth. Plans for expansion into London and Paris, financed by existing resources, demonstrate Temper's resilience as a successful entrepreneurial venture.

However, the article also highlights the legal battles initiated by trade unions, accusing Temper of false self-employment and maintaining a brutal revenue model. While Niels Arntz expressed gratitude for trade unions' critical eye, he criticised their confrontational approach. This angle highlights entrepreneurs' challenges in navigating legal battles and industry criticisms.
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Read the original article here.

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