How did the idea for the start-up come about?
Back in 2014, while Matthias was working as an automotive mechatronics technician, he noticed that a large number of used tires were being disposed of, even though they could still be driven many thousands of kilometers. In the past, Matthias sold tires independently in addition to his training and was thus able to finance his studies. With the know-how from his studies (industrial engineering Bachelor + Master at HM) and the enthusiasm of Dennis and Robin, the business idea was further developed and brought into a scalable platform model.
What challenges did you face at the beginning of the Start-up Certificate?
At the beginning of the Start-up Certificate, we still had a lot of different ideas about where the journey could go, but no clear thrust. Through the coaching and the different methodologies, we were able to pull our vision straight - to build the marketplace for used tires. For this, the Startup Certificate helped us to launch our first MVP. The warehouse space and co-working spaces provided helped us extremely and it allowed us to take the next step forward.
What were your top 3 highlights from the Start-up Certificate and how did they advance your start-up?
- Firstly, the exchange and networking with other founders, experts, choachers, etc. Through different formats such as the Innovation Café or the work in the Precelerator, we were able to gather many impressions from other founders and learn from them.
- A personal highlight for us was the first turnover - the first tires sold. It's just an incredibly good feeling to see that the idea works, even if it's only on a small scale at first. This motivates us to keep going and to keep finding new solutions to problems that arise.
- The first talks with potential investors were also extremely valuable. Even if they don't always go smoothly and you run into some headwind, this is extremely helpful in the long run. The feedback we received always helped us to use new perspectives and thus find new approaches to solutions.
4 What is your vision?
Our vision is to be the marketplace for tested used tires.
We have noticed that used tires are a huge environmental problem and that there is currently no marketplace for inspected used tires. Many used tires are offered only by private persons (here no professional examination takes place), or directly disposed/incinerated. This results in several million additional tons of CO2 per year. We want to counteract all this. So that more people have access to tested used tires and the environment is protected.
5. What are your do's and don'ts when setting up a company?
One of the most central aspects is to have the same picture as a team of where we want to go - a shared vision. This also includes having a plan of what you want to start (legal form), whether you are aiming for an exit, and having an eye on what ongoing costs you will face. Here, clear and direct communication is necessary to clarify even difficult issues, e.g. the division of shares, so that there are no disputes afterwards.
Why should you apply for the Start-up Certificate and what advice would you give to interested founders?
The Start-up Certificate offers, besides the financial support, access to a huge network and to a lot of knowledge and experience. You can only profit from this. In addition, you benefit from the free initial consultation with a lawyer and a tax advisor. The Start-up Certificate really helps anyone who wants to start a business to take the important step from idea to business and supports it as best as it can!
7. and finally - your call to action: How can we do you good?
Support us in our mission - buy used tires and do something good for your wallet and the environment!
Convinced of "Re-Tire" like we are? Then become active! We wish the whole team continued success.
Do you have an innovative project of your own? Then apply now for our 24-week accelerator program, the Start-up Certificate, and become part of the Start-up League yourself!
Apply online now until 10.1.2022!