CarTrawler

CarTrawler, based in Dublin, Ireland, is a technology platform that facilitates car rental services, allowing users to compare and book vehicles from various suppliers conveniently. Founded in 2004, CarTrawler operates as a technology-driven platform specializing in car rental solutions. In May 2020, TowerBrook acquired a majority stake in CarTrawler from BC Partners and Insight Partners for EUR 100 mn, consolidating its financial position during challenging market conditions. The company does not report any subsidiaries or changes in its core business strategy since inception.

CarTrawler specializes in providing comprehensive car rental solutions and related services through its innovative technology platform. Their core offering enables customers to easily compare and book car rentals from various suppliers, ensuring a seamless user experience from the initial search to the final booking. The platform caters to both B2B and B2C markets, serving a diverse client base that includes travel agencies, online travel agents (OTAs), and direct consumers seeking reliable transportation options. CarTrawler's services are designed to simplify travel logistics for users across multiple geographical markets, including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, addressing the needs of tourists and business travelers alike.

The company's focus on convenience and accessibility positions it as a key player in the travel and mobility sector. In 2022, CarTrawler reported a revenue of EUR 179,539,059. 80 and an EBITDA of EUR 13,027,632. 50.

The company generates revenue primarily through commissions on bookings made via its platform, establishing a transactional model that emphasizes partnerships with car rental providers and travel agencies. The business operates on a B2B basis, facilitating direct bookings for clients who leverage CarTrawler's technology to enhance their offerings. Revenue streams are derived from both fixed fees per transaction and variable commissions based on the total value of rentals booked. Each transaction typically involves the customer making a reservation for a vehicle through the CarTrawler platform, which then processes the payment and allocates a portion of the income to the rental providers.

This structure supports the scalability of CarTrawler's operations, catering to an increasing number of users and partners in the travel industry. CarTrawler aims to enhance its platform by designing new products and expanding into untapped markets. Recent funding from the EUR 100 mn Secondary Buyout will strengthen their balance sheet and support these growth initiatives. Specifically, CarTrawler plans to leverage this capital to invest in technology enhancements and potential geographic expansions in regions such as Asia-Pacific and South America by 2023.

The acquisition by TowerBrook is intended to allow CarTrawler to navigate the evolving landscape of the global travel market and sustain its operational growth.