The once-promising Berlin-based startup, unu, which aimed to revolutionize urban mobility with its stylish electric scooters, has hit a roadblock, filing for bankruptcy. The company, founded approximately a decade ago, had garnered attention and support, raising nearly €40 million in funding, including a significant $12 million from investors like Ponooc, Capnamic Ventures, IRIS Capital, Michael Baum, and NRW.BANK in its Series B round in 2018.
The bankruptcy filing took place at the district court in Berlin-Charlottenburg, citing various challenges as contributing factors. The official statement from unu pointed to increased material and transport costs, higher operational expenses, and a notable decline in demand due to inflation as key reasons behind the financial distress.
Despite the bankruptcy filing, unu intends to continue its business operations during the insolvency proceedings, focusing on a strategic restructuring of its business and assets. The company, which recently employed around 50 staff members, is optimistic about achieving a restructuring solution that would enable the continued sale and service of its electric scooters.
Over the years, unu has faced a series of challenges, including production halts during the pandemic, supply chain disruptions related to chip shortages, and, more recently, a downturn in consumer sentiment. The company acknowledged its efforts in renewing its scooter subscription model in 2023 and expanding its offline presence with trade partners. Insolvency administrator Gordon Geiser expressed confidence in finding a restructuring solution, emphasizing the potential for unu to continue contributing to the e-mobility landscape.
The bankruptcy of unu underscores the complexities and uncertainties faced by companies in the electric scooter space, particularly in navigating issues related to production, supply chains, and market dynamics. As the company enters the insolvency process, stakeholders will closely watch for developments that could shape the future trajectory of unu in the competitive urban mobility market.