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Roadsurfer

eCommerce & Marketplaces · Munich, Germany · Founded 2016

Roadsurfer is an outdoor mobility company founded in 2016 by Markus Dickhardt, Stephie Niemann, Christoph Niemann, Jean-Marie Klein, and Susanne Dickhardt. The idea originated from the founders' own challenging experience renting a campervan for a holiday, which inspired them to create a simpler, more accessible process. The Munich-based company operates a multi-faceted business model centered on outdoor travel, primarily offering campervan rentals, sales of used vehicles, and a long-term subscription service. The business makes money through these direct-to-consumer rental, subscription, and sales channels. The company has expanded its services with the launch of "roadsurfer spots," a digital platform and app that connects travelers with a network of private and unique camping locations, such as farms and vineyards, away from traditional crowded campsites. This platform allows private landowners to generate income by listing their properties for campers. Roadsurfer's rental promise includes ready-to-go camping packages, unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation options, a free second driver, and a fleet of modern campervan models from brands like VW, Mercedes Benz, and Ford. Since its inception, Roadsurfer has undergone significant international expansion. It now operates a fleet of nearly 10,000 vehicles across more than 90 locations in 16 countries, spanning Europe and North America. The company entered the U.S. market in 2022 with a location in Los Angeles and has since added stations in other major North American cities, including Vancouver, Calgary, Denver, and Seattle. The firm's growth has been supported by substantial financing, including a €60 million asset-backed securitization from Macquarie Group and a €25 million venture debt transaction from BBVA, bringing its total financing capacity to over €500 million. In 2023, the company generated approximately €114 million in sales. Keywords: campervan rental, RV rental, motorhome subscription, outdoor travel, camping platform, private campsites, road trips, van life, vehicle rental, travel technology, European travel, North American travel, roadsurfer spots, adventure travel, flexible travel, used campervan sales, travel booking, mobile travel, shared mobility, outdoor recreation