German Mobility Startup Flix Attracts Major Shareholders EQT and Klaus-Michael Kühne
Frankfurt: The German mobility startup Flix, known for its successful ventures Flixbus and Flixtrain, has recently welcomed two new significant shareholders. The Swedish financial investor EQT, in partnership with the holding company of German logistics magnate Klaus-Michael Kühne, has secured a 35 percent stake in Flix. The announcement was made by Flix co-founder and CEO André Schwämmlein in an exclusive interview with Handelsblatt. Schwämmlein emphasized that the decision to bring on board these new investors was the result of careful consideration of various financing options. While an initial public offering (IPO) was always a possibility for Flix, it was not the primary goal for the company. Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed by Flix, but sources within financial and investor circles have indicated that the consortium led by EQT paid approximately 900 million euros for the stake. The discussions with EQT were first reported by Handelsblatt in mid-June. Both EQT and Kühne are said to have high expectations for Flix and its future growth prospects. Addressing speculations about potential challenges with transparency requirements in a public listing, Schwämmlein confidently stated that Flix has no fear of transparency, and that such concerns would not have deterred them from pursuing an IPO. He highlighted that Flix has been able to refine its strategic vision successfully in a private setting over the years, signaling the company's readiness for the next phase of expansion and development.
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