“The burger”, an iconic staple of the global culinary scene, represents comfort, versatility, and the pure joy of a delicious meal. But it’s more than just a symbol of comfort food that transcends cultures and borders; it stands for both tradition and innovation. As we celebrate the delicious legacy of this global culinary favourite, it’s time to look forward to what the future holds.
Driven by technological innovation, changing dietary preferences, and a relentless pursuit of sustainability, a new breed of startups is emerging, eager to redefine the traditional burger. From plant-based wonders to lab-grown meat, and from artisanal creations to smart cooking methods, the burger landscape is undergoing a tasty transformation.
We’ve curated a list of 6 European startups founded between 2019 and 2023. Each one challenges the status quo, offering a fresh, innovative take on the time-honoured burger. Whether it’s plant-based alternatives or avant-garde flavour profiles, these startups are proving that the burger’s future is as promising as its illustrious past.
VICIO – Barcelona
VICIO is a Spanish food delivery brand specializing in the online sale of burgers. It’s tapped into a very particular market, but it seems to have gotten the recipe right – and that goes for the taste of the burgers as much as the business strategy. The brand offers quality burgers cooked to specific orders and has successfully bet on community-based marketing strategies. Founded in 2020, VICIO secured over €18.9 million, making it one of the fastest-growing and most promising brands in Spain.
Neat Burger – London
Neat Burger firmly believes that if society is to reduce meat consumption, the experience of eating plant-based food should be as delightful as any other, rather than a compromise. With the influential backing of personalities like Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton and renowned actor and environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, Neat Burger aspires to be an ambassador for sustainable eating habits. Founded in 2019, Neat Burger has secured over €23.7 million, envisioning a world where meat-free and flexitarian lifestyles are mainstream.
VEGAN SHACK – Manchester
VEGAN SHACK VEGAN SHACK excels in offering a broad spectrum of food and beverage services. Their diverse menu ranges from shack muffins, breakfast bagels, and pancakes to BBQ-loaded fries and shack salad. Pioneering in vegan offerings, they have carved a niche for themselves in the competitive market. Founded in 2019 they have raised over €5.7 million with the mission to make delicious tasting plant-based alternative fast food accessible to as many people as possible. Each dish, while being sustainable, it also aims to evoke a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Ready Burger – London
Ready Burger began its journey in 2020, quickly becoming a favourite for those seeking tasty plant-based options. They pride themselves on delivering traditional flavours without using meat, making plant-based eating more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Their commitment to affordable, flavourful, and sustainable food choices has garnered them significant attention, resulting in a funding boost of over €2.6 million. With their unique approach, they’re not only serving meals but also aiming to change minds about the potential of plant-based cuisine.
ACCRO – Hauts de France
Established in 2021 by Nxtfood, ACCRO offers a 100% plant-based portfolio that includes burger patties, nuggets, meatballs, stuffing, premium burgers, mince, escalopes, chunks, sausages and merguez. The company’s products can be found in over 1,700 points of sale throughout France, and international distribution is expected to commence soon. No funding round has been disclosed. Their commitment to innovation has set them apart in the burgeoning plant-based food industry. As they expand, they aim to make plant-based options more accessible to everyone globally.
BUN Burgers – Milan
BUN Burgers was founded in 2019 in Milan. It is a quality fast-casual restaurant deeply rooted in two traditions: the classic American burger, prepared with meticulous precision, and the 100% plant-based protein burger. In line with the brand’s sustainable philosophy, this plant-based option tastes and looks just like meat, making it ideal for vegetarians and ensuring it has no negative impact on the planet. They have won several design awards. No funding round has been disclosed.
By the way: If you’re a corporate or investor looking for exciting startups in a specific market for a potential investment or acquisition, check out our Startup Sourcing Service!
