Rebike specializes in the rental, leasing and sale of premium e-bikes. The startup’s offer consists from two platforms: On www.rebike.de The startup sells new and used e-bikes from various manufacturers and on www.ebike-abo.de It offers subscription models. Both are intertwined:
"We sell like-new used brand-name e-bikes from our rental offers via our online platform. This not only extends the value chain – the second usage cycle is also entirely in keeping with sustainability and climate protection,"
explains founder and managing director Thomas Bernik.
Rebike has now benefited from the e-bike boom during the coronavirus crisis, more than doubling its sales last year. And the startup expects continued strong growth this year. However, this also brings new challenges, says Bernik:
“Supply chains are partially disrupted and we have to ensure that we always have enough bikes and spare parts.”
Loan supplements venture capital
Until now, Rebike relied on venture capital, partly through business angels and partly through institutional venture capitalists, to finance its growth. The startup announced a €10 million Series B financing round in March 2021. Now, the loan from Creditshelf is intended to further supplement its working capital. Bernik plans to use the additional funds to expand its e-bike inventory and finance the subscription model.
Florian Weinkauf, Team Lead at Fintech Creditshelf, says:
"As part of the analysis, we closely examined the business model, positioning, and finances. After a short time, it became clear that many factors spoke in favor of financing Rebike. Startups, in particular, depend on quick and uncomplicated growth financing to take the next steps toward profitability. However, banks usually hold back as long as the company isn't in the black."
