Bregal Family Office has acquired a 27% stake in Austrian children's bicycle manufacturer Woom, marking its first investment in Austria and signaling strong growth potential for the company.

Target Company Overview

Woom is a prominent manufacturer of children's bicycles based in Austria, co-founded by Marcus Ihlenfeld and Christian Bezdeka in 2013. Established to address the lack of suitable bicycles for kids, Woom has rapidly grown to become one of the leading players in the children's bike industry, achieving annual revenues exceeding 50 million euros. The founders, who left their previous careers in design and automotive industries, created lightweight bikes specifically designed for children, taking into account their unique needs.

Woom's innovative product lineup features bicycles that weigh significantly less than conventional models, with special attention given to grips, gear systems, and locks tailored for children. The company's offerings range in price from approximately €174 to €999, with an additional line of children’s e-bikes priced just under €3,000. Since achieving profitability in 2017, Woom has successfully navigated various challenges, including a commitment to sustainability through shorter transport routes and an upcycling model allowing parents to return bicycles when their children outgrow them.

Industry Overview in Austria

The children’s bicycle industry in Austria is part of a larger, growing cycling market, which has experienced a significant shift towards sustainability and physical activity in recent years. With increasing awareness of health and environmental i