In the world of travel and technology, a new player is redefining the experience of nature-based retreats. Berlin-based startup Raus has recently secured a whopping €8.5 million in funding, marking a significant milestone in its journey to enhance our connection with the natural world. This substantial investment round was led by ROCH Ventures, a prominent European Travel Tech venture capital firm known for its deep roots in the travel and hospitality sector.
Raus’s remarkable funding pool includes notable investors like Rockaway Ventures and Dupuis Investment. This round also saw continued support from reputable existing backers such as Speedinvest and 10x Founders, further solidifying the brand’s financial foundation. A key component of this successful funding round was an asset-backed lending facility obtained from Varengold Bank, a significant stride towards scaling Raus’s unique concept.
Ludger Kübel-Sorger, the Founder & Managing Partner of ROCH Ventures, shared his excitement about the partnership: “Raus has all the ingredients of a future winner: a premium value proposition targeting the high-growth segment of Nature Immersion; the use of digital technologies for true sustainability and rapid scaling; and an outstanding founding team.”
The newly acquired funds are earmarked for strategic deployment. Raus plans to expand its footprint across Europe, starting with Austria in the near future. This expansion aligns with the introduction of their Cabin Model 2.0, a testament to innovation in sustainable travel. The new model boasts a lighter, more compact design, complete with advanced technology, luxurious dark paneling, modular stairs, and an enhanced shower experience that promises panoramic views.
As Raus looks ahead to 2024, ambitions are high. The company aims to further cement its presence in Europe, establish more community locations, improve its proprietary technology for seamless stays, and diversify its offering with a range of immersive nature products and services.
Julian Trautwein, the Co-founder and CEO of Raus, expressed pride in the investor support: “With Raus, we address critical challenges within the travel industry while meeting the enduring demand for a more conscious, and mindful living that will accompany us for many years to come.”
Since its inception in October 2021, Raus has rapidly grown, providing thousands of guests the opportunity to reconnect with nature in over 50 cabins spread across nine German states. The company has tapped into a growing need for escapism from city life, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and nature immersion. This approach is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where burnout and mental health challenges are increasingly common.
Last summer, Raus achieved nearly full occupancy, a testament to its growing popularity. This success was highlighted by the opening of Lodge am See, an upscale nature resort nestled in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This move not only expanded Raus’s offerings but also underscored its commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable retreat experiences.
The past year has seen Raus achieve an impressive 500% growth in revenue year-over-year. The number of guests hosted and new bookings have also increased significantly, signaling a strong and consistent demand for its unique retreats. By partnering with local farmers and foresters, Raus has also positively impacted the agricultural sector, providing land partners with an average additional income of €1,500 per month. These partnerships extend beyond land use; local partners can offer their products and services to Raus’s guests, including local food packages, farm products, and unique experiences like guided herbal tours or alpaca hikes.
This innovative approach not only diversifies revenue streams for local businesses but also contributes to their sustainability and resilience against challenges like climate change. In essence, Raus is more than a travel company; it’s a catalyst for positive change in the travel industry, local economies, and the environment.
In summary, Raus’s recent funding success is a significant milestone in its mission to redefine nature-based travel. With a focus on sustainability, technology, and local partnership, Raus is well-positioned to lead the charge in this evolving sector. As it expands across Europe and enhances its offerings, Raus stands as a shining example of how business innovation can harmonize with environmental consciousness and community empowerment.
